European politics: a comparative introduction, 4th edition

This fully updated and revised introduction to the governance and politics of Europe provides an accessible guide to the institutions and the issues that matter in a continent where the boundaries between East and West, and between domestic and EU affairs are breaking down. Covering, but by no means confining itself to a common core of countries (Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, Greece, Poland, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Sweden), it is a concise yet comprehensive introduction to one of the world's most important and fascinating regions.

Chapters in this edition have been expanded to deal with the new economic and political realities of life in Europe, including the implications of Britain’s historic decision in 2016 to leave the European Union. Furthermore, the book is supported by a new accompanying website which includes features to help guide learning, including multiple choice questions for students to test their knowledge, an internet guide to European politics and individual chapter resources.

Contents:

1. Europe: a continent in the making
2. The end of the nation state?
3. From government to governance: running the state, making policy and policing the constitution
4. Governments and parliaments: a long way from equality
5. Parties: how the past affects the present, and an uncertain future
6. Elections, voting and referendums: systems, turnout, preferences and unpredictability
7. The media: player and recorder
8. Participation and pressure politics: civil society, organised interests and social movements
9. Politics over markets: does politics – and left and right – still matter?
10. Not wanted, but needed: migrants and minorities
11. Protecting and promoting: Europe's international politics

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