Introduction to European Integration

Academic year 2011-12

Date last modified

23-4-2012 1:29

Period

Period 1

Startdate:

05-Sep-11

Enddate:

28-Oct-11

Code

SSC1009

ECTS credits

5.0

Organisational unit

University College Maastricht

Coordinator

A.P. van der Mei

Description

This course starts by presenting the deep historical roots of the notion of Europe, its recession during the 18th and 19th century, and its re- emergence in the 20th century. Next, the specific circumstances of the 1940’s and 1950’s are analyzed, as the breeding ground for European integration as a peaceful, democratic process. Why could it develop after World War 2, how did it develop since the 1950’s? There were starters and non-starters in European integration, crises, successes and failures. What were the ‘triggers’ of integration (Markets?; Defense needs?)? Which institutions and policies were built at the European level, what explains their success/failure? How and why did membership of EU expand since the 1970’s? How and why did the balance of power among EU-institutions and member states develop? How did domestic/national politics influence the developments at EU-level? What are the major theories about European integration (federalism, functionalism)? After the end of the Cold War: what are the cross-border problems and challenges confronting European governments (trade, mobility, crime, environment, security, immigration)? What are the consequences and motives of the accession of central and east European countries? Will the challenges of world trade, agricultural policy reform, and foreign policy/defense be met by EU?

Goals

• To examine the development of Europe during 20th century. • To examine the way Europe operates in 21st century as well as discuss the problems and challenges it faces.

Instruction language

Prerequisites

Recommended literature

Teaching methods

PBL
PRESENTATION(S)
LECTURE(S)
ASSIGNMENT(S)
PAPER(S)

Assessment methods

FINAL PAPER
ATTENDANCE
PARTICIPATION
WRITTEN EXAM
ORAL EXAM
TAKE HOME EXAM

Key words