1. Topic 1: Introduction to the European Union: An exercise in definition What is it? What was it? What will it be? An economic, social and political view. The European integration process. Changes. From Rome to Lisbon. |
2. Topic 2: Homogeneity/heterogeneity inside and outside the EU: An analysis of its external environment and its internal situation The EU in the world. A general view inside the EU. Change in real convergence within the EU. |
3. Topic 3. The decision-making process and institutional architecture European Council. Council of the European Union. Parliament. Other institutional bodies. Debate on the effectivenes of EU institutions. |
4. Topic 4: The EU financial system Changes in the EU budget. Budgetary principles. Own resources and expenses. The budgetary process. |
5. Topic 5: Economic and monetary union Economic policy coordination. Stability and growth pacts. Effects of the economic crisis. The Euro Zone, a union within the union? |
6. Topic 6: Foreign relations A. Foreign policy and European political cooperation. B. Trade policy: European Community and world trade; independent trade policy; conventional trade policy; preferential relations: Neighbourhood Policy; Union for the Mediterranean; special relations with certain countries (Latin America; development policy; Lomé Convention). |
7. Topic 7: Debate on the future of the European Union Brexit: positive or negative for the EU? Future enlargements. 2020 strategy. Project 2030 report. |
8. Topic 6: Plans to strengthen the EU The Five President's Report. Banking union. JC Junckers' White Paper. |