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2026 Fall

European Union: Policies and Current Issues - IRS301/IRS601 Fall 2026


Course
Mats Braun
For information about registration please contact our admissions.

Lessons

Here is the course outline:

1. Introduction

Sep 3 8am .. 10:45am, Classroom 3.26 (Main Building)

Lecture that introduces the development of European integration and the international context within which it developed and flourished. During the session we will also go through the course syllabus and discuss the meaning of Europe.

2. 2. The Uniqueness of the EU: EU Institutions and Treaty Development

Sep 10 8am .. 10:45am, Classroom 3.26

The session targets the difference between the EU and other intergovernmental organizations. The EU’s institutional structure is discussed in detail.

3. 3. Explaining European Integration

Sep 17 8am .. 10:45am, Classroom 3.26

Introduces the heterogeneous world of integration theories, with the focal point on traditional theories such as intergovernmentalism and neo-functionalism. Assignment (4): Theory application task- (5-minute presentations)

4. The EU’s Internal and External Policies

Sep 24 8am .. 10:45am, 3.26 - This week's class is online!

Provides an overview of EU core policies and connects them to the decision-making process. Presentation topics deadline!

5. Economic Integration

Oct 1 8am .. 10:45am, 3.26

Discusses the economic integration and related policies of the EU. Readings: Cini and Perez-Solorzano chapters 16, 19 and 21

6. 6. Market Correcting Policies

Oct 8 8am .. 10:45am, Classroom 3.26

The session devoted to policies developed to correct the consequences of market integration. Readings: Cini and Perez-Solorzano chapters 22 and 24 Presentations on EU Climate Policy, Environmental Policy and the Common Foreign Policy

7. 7. Area of Freedom, Security and Justice

Oct 15 8am .. 10:45am, Classroom 3.26

During the session we discuss Issues linked to EU borders, internal security, and technological sovereignty. Readings: Cini and Perez-Solorzano chapters 20, 23 and 25 Presentations: Migration, Counter Terrorism and Technological Sovereignty

8. 8. The European Union's Foreign, Security, and Defence Policies

Oct 23 8am .. 10:45am, Classroom 2.05

Please note the change of date and room. The European Union's Foreign, Security, and Defence Policies. Readings: Cini and Perez-Solorzano chapters 18 and 29. Presentation: Common Security and Defence Policy

9. 9. Simulation Game - CO2 emission standards for new cars and vans 'Fit for 55' package

Nov 5 8am .. 10:45am, Classroom 3.26

Participants are given different roles as representing the European Commission, the Presidency and member states/groups of member states. Readings: see PP file Preparations prior to session: Role preparations and opening statements

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