Course content
This course introduces students to the institutions, decision-making processes and policies of the European Union (EU), constituting a framework for business in Europe. It provides some of the knowledge needed by companies, NGOs and public agencies engaged in cross-border business or in developing policy positions pertaining to rules and standards applied in European markets.
The course gives an overview of the historical development of postwar integration in Europe to the present day, as well as the functions and practices of the institutions of the EU, including the European Council, European Commission, Council of the EU, European Parliament, Court of Justice etc. Furthermore, some of the key EU policy areas relevant to business will be studied, both the content and processes of policy-making, herein lobbyism. These might include the policies of the EU as a customs union and external trade agreements, the monetary and fiscal framework of EMU, labour mobility and labour market regulation, environmental policy with a focus on climate change and the EU Emissions Trading Scheme, and rules and norms pertaining to the Single European Market, such as competition policy, health and safety standards.
In this course, analyses of EU institutions, policies and standards are conducted using relevant theory and concepts, taking business as well as public interest and critical perspectives. Students learn to reflect upon the economic, political, social and ethical implications of policy-making in the EU
See course description in course catalogue