European Union politics

This major new text provides an engaging introduction to all aspects of politics and policy in the European Union. The author's lively and student-friendly style brings the subject to life, giving readers a sense of the colour of EU politics and its impact on people's lives.

John McCormick examines the history, institutions, processes and policies of the European Union. He analyses where the EU stands in today's world, set in the context of globalization, EU enlargement and Europe's changing role on the world stage. In addition, the book focuses on the mechanisms by which Europeans engage with the EU and reviews public opinion in member states – both about integration itself and a range of broader issues.

Each chapter contains a wide range of features to support and reinforce learning:
- Photos and descriptions of events, thinkers and political actors
- Integrated coverage of theory
- Chapter summaries and guides to further reading
- On-page definitions and clear explanations of key concepts

Contents:

PART I: HISTORY & IDEAS
1. Understanding Integration
2. What is the European Union?
3. Who are the Europeans?
4. Organizing Postwar Europe
5. Building a Single Market
6. Paving the Way to European Union
7. To Lisbon and Beyond
8. The Treaties
9. The Member States

PART II: POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
10. The European Commission
11. The Councils
12. The European Parliament
13. The European Court of Justice
14. Specialized Agencies
15. Parties and Interest Groups
16. Elections and Referendums
17. Public Opinion

PART III: POLICIES
18. Public Policy in the EU
19. Economic Policy
20. Inside the Eurozone
21. Managing Resources
22. Cohesion Policy
23. Justice and Home Affairs
24. The EU as a Global Actor
25. The EU and the World

• Primary Source