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Katja Biedenkopf,
Kolja Raube,
and
Wouter Wolfs
This course examines the multi-level governance system of the European Union.
Its purpose is to make sense of the intricate web of institutions, actors, rules and processes involved in European integration and EU policy-making. In doing so, its looks both at the EU’s institutional set-up, the role of its member states as well as European non-governmental actors, such as civil society actors. The extent to which the different actors can exert power and impact the policy-making process within the EU is thoroughly discussed.
Read more
This course examines the multi-level governance system of the European Union.
Its purpose is to make sense of the intricate web of institutions, actors, rules and processes involved in European integration and EU policy-making. In doing so, its looks both at the EU’s institutional set-up, the role of its member states as well as European non-governmental actors, such as civil society actors. The extent to which the different actors can exert power and impact the policy-making process within the EU is thoroughly discussed.
Read more
This course examines the multi-level governance system of the European Union.
Its purpose is to make sense of the intricate web of institutions, actors, rules and processes involved in European integration and EU policy-making. In doing so, its looks both at the EU’s institutional set-up, the role of its member states as well as European non-governmental actors, such as civil society actors. The extent to which the different actors can exert power and impact the policy-making process within the EU is thoroughly discussed.
The course also explores and theorises the EU’s role on the global stage, as well as how it deals with European and global challenges. Attention is drawn to both internal and external challenges the EU faces, by discussing contemporary contestations of European governance.
Case studies from the environmental policy domain will be presented to illustrate how EU policy-making works in practice.
Six modules are developed to guide you through this learning journey. Each of the modules will approach the learning objectives by considering the EU from a multi-level perspective. We will come back time and time again to the synergies, and possible tensions, between the EU and the Member States, and the EU and other global or regional actors.
The six modules are divided up as follows:
- The Nature of the EU: we will tackle questions about what the EU is, what it is not, and how the EU came to be as it is today.
- The EU's Institutions: we will delve into the functioning and evolution of the main decision-making EU institutions.
- Policy-making in the EU: we will highlight the main policy-making procedures, actors and processes that occur in the EU.
- Stakeholders and their role in European governance: we will discuss the role of lobbyists, EU citizens and EU elections.
- The European Union in World Politics: we will consider the EU's own objectives on the global stage and its multilateral and bilateral relations in the world.
- Contestation in the EU: we will explore periods of crises and contestation in the EU, and how the bloc has responded.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/eaued4/governance
What's inside
Learning objectives
- The nature of the eu: we will tackle questions about what the eu is, what it is not, and how the eu came to be as it is today.
- The eu's institutions: we will delve into the functioning and evolution of the main decision-making eu institutions.
- Policy-making in the eu: we will highlight the main policy-making procedures, actors and processes that occur in the eu.
- Stakeholders and their role in european governance: we will discuss the role of lobbyists, eu citizens and eu elections.
- The european union in world politics: we will consider the eu's own objectives on the global stage and its multilateral and bilateral relations in the world.
- Contestation in the eu: we will explore periods of crises and contestation in the eu, and how the bloc has responded.
- The nature of the eu: we will tackle questions about what the eu is, what it is not, and how the eu came to be as it is today.
- The eu's institutions: we will delve into the functioning and evolution of the main decision-making eu institutions.
- Policy-making in the eu: we will highlight the main policy-making procedures, actors and processes that occur in the eu.
- Stakeholders and their role in european governance: we will discuss the role of lobbyists, eu citizens and eu elections.
- The european union in world politics: we will consider the eu's own objectives on the global stage and its multilateral and bilateral relations in the world.
- Contestation in the eu: we will explore periods of crises and contestation in the eu, and how the bloc has responded.
Syllabus
Module 1: The Nature of the EU
Determine the nature and evolution of the EU, both theoretically and in practice
Assess the potential scenarios for further EU integration
Read more
Syllabus
Module 1: The Nature of the EU
Determine the nature and evolution of the EU, both theoretically and in practice
Assess the potential scenarios for further EU integration
Read more
Discuss the two main approaches to theorising EU integration, namely neo-functionalism and intergovernmentalism.
Module 2: The EU's Institutions
Understand the historic evolution of the European Parliament, the European Commission, the European Council, the Council of the EU and the Court of Justice of the EU
Explain the internal organisation and roles of these key EU institutions
Identify the role of the various EU bodies and agencies in helping the EU to fulfil its tasks
Module 3: Policy-making in the EU
Identify how the EU makes decisions in various areas (competences)
Identify which kinds of (non-)legislative acts EU institutions can adopt
Discuss the methods by which the EU and the member states adopt legislation ( Community method; intergovernmental method; open method of coordination; centralised decision-making)
Explain the actors and processes involved in the EU policy cycle and agenda-setting
Module 4: Stakeholders and their Role in European Governance
Discuss the role of citizens, lobbyists, EU political parties in the EU, in theory and in practice
Understand how regional and local governments defend their interest at European level
Assess European elections, in particular the funding parties, the potential of transnational lists, and the spitzenkandidaten process
Module 5: The European Union in World Politics
Understand the formal objectives of the EU’s foreign policy (EUFP) and the ambiguity in them
Identify the four dimensions of EUFP: CFSP; CSDP; external actions and the internal dimension of internal policies
Explain how the historical background has contributed to the main areas of tension in the foreign policy setting
Identify the role of the main institutional actors and instruments in EUFP
Discuss the features, advantages and limitations of different theoretical lenses to analyse EUFP (Power; Actorness; Multilateralism; decentring)
Explore the main features of the EU’s bilateral relationships with China, Russia and the US and of its multilateral relations with the UN, WTO and NATO
Module 6: Contemporary Contestation of European Governance
Understand the concept of contestation in present European and global governance
Identify how Member states contest the EU as a political and legal order
Discuss how different European integration theories consider the impact of contestation on the EU in times of crises
Assess the EU’s strategic responses to contestation throughout periods of crises
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Develops understanding of the European Union's multi-level governance system
Provides a solid foundation for understanding the complex interplay of EU institutions, actors, and processes
Examines the EU's evolving role on the global stage
Taught by reputable instructors with expertise in European integration
May require prior knowledge of or interest in European politics
Covers a wide range of topics, which may appeal to learners with varying interests
Save this course
Save Governance in the European Union to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Governance in the European Union with these
activities:
Review what you already know about multiple-level governance
Show steps
Activate prior knowledge, increasing the likelihood for forming connections with new information
Browse courses on
Governance
Show steps
-
Recall and write down what you remember about multiple-level governance and its key concepts.
-
Consider the different levels of governance involved and how they interact.
Explore an interactive timeline of EU integration
Show steps
Gain a visual understanding of the historical development of the EU, providing context for current governance structures
Show steps
-
Visit the European Union website and access the interactive timeline.
-
Navigate through the timeline, exploring key milestones and events.
-
Identify patterns and trends in the integration process.
Discuss EU governance in a peer group
Show steps
Engage in active learning and knowledge exchange by discussing course concepts with peers, reinforcing understanding
Browse courses on
EU Institutions
Show steps
-
Form a peer group with classmates.
-
Choose a topic related to EU governance to discuss.
-
Prepare talking points and research to support your discussion.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Analyze EU policy documents
Show steps
Develop critical thinking skills by analyzing real-world EU policy documents, deepening understanding of policy-making processes
Show steps
-
Choose an EU policy document relevant to your interests.
-
Read and analyze the document, identifying key issues, objectives, and proposed actions.
-
Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the policy.
Create a presentation on a specific EU policy area
Show steps
Synthesize knowledge by researching and presenting on a specific EU policy area, fostering a deeper understanding of policy content and processes
Show steps
-
Choose a specific EU policy area to focus on.
-
Research the policy area, gathering information from credible sources.
-
Develop a presentation that outlines the policy, its objectives, and its implementation.
Connect with an EU policy expert
Show steps
Gain insights from experienced professionals by connecting with an EU policy expert, enriching understanding of real-world policy dynamics
Show steps
-
Identify potential mentors through networking events or online platforms.
-
Reach out to potential mentors and express your interest in connecting.
-
Establish regular communication and ask thoughtful questions to gain insights.
Volunteer with an EU-focused organization
Show steps
Gain practical experience and contribute to the field by volunteering with an EU-focused organization, applying knowledge and developing new skills
Show steps
-
Research EU-focused organizations and identify ones that align with your interests.
-
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
-
Commit to a regular volunteering schedule and actively participate in the organization's activities.
Participate in an EU-themed case competition
Show steps
Test your knowledge and analytical skills by participating in an EU-themed case competition, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
Show steps
-
Identify EU-themed case competitions and register to participate.
-
Analyze the case study and develop a comprehensive solution.
-
Prepare and deliver a presentation to a panel of judges.
Review what you already know about multiple-level governance
Show steps
Activate prior knowledge, increasing the likelihood for forming connections with new information
Browse courses on
Governance
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Recall and write down what you remember about multiple-level governance and its key concepts.
- Consider the different levels of governance involved and how they interact.
Explore an interactive timeline of EU integration
Show steps
Gain a visual understanding of the historical development of the EU, providing context for current governance structures
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit the European Union website and access the interactive timeline.
- Navigate through the timeline, exploring key milestones and events.
- Identify patterns and trends in the integration process.
Discuss EU governance in a peer group
Show steps
Engage in active learning and knowledge exchange by discussing course concepts with peers, reinforcing understanding
Browse courses on
EU Institutions
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Form a peer group with classmates.
- Choose a topic related to EU governance to discuss.
- Prepare talking points and research to support your discussion.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Analyze EU policy documents
Show steps
Develop critical thinking skills by analyzing real-world EU policy documents, deepening understanding of policy-making processes
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose an EU policy document relevant to your interests.
- Read and analyze the document, identifying key issues, objectives, and proposed actions.
- Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the policy.
Create a presentation on a specific EU policy area
Show steps
Synthesize knowledge by researching and presenting on a specific EU policy area, fostering a deeper understanding of policy content and processes
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific EU policy area to focus on.
- Research the policy area, gathering information from credible sources.
- Develop a presentation that outlines the policy, its objectives, and its implementation.
Connect with an EU policy expert
Show steps
Gain insights from experienced professionals by connecting with an EU policy expert, enriching understanding of real-world policy dynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify potential mentors through networking events or online platforms.
- Reach out to potential mentors and express your interest in connecting.
- Establish regular communication and ask thoughtful questions to gain insights.
Volunteer with an EU-focused organization
Show steps
Gain practical experience and contribute to the field by volunteering with an EU-focused organization, applying knowledge and developing new skills
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research EU-focused organizations and identify ones that align with your interests.
- Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
- Commit to a regular volunteering schedule and actively participate in the organization's activities.
Participate in an EU-themed case competition
Show steps
Test your knowledge and analytical skills by participating in an EU-themed case competition, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify EU-themed case competitions and register to participate.
- Analyze the case study and develop a comprehensive solution.
- Prepare and deliver a presentation to a panel of judges.
Career center
Learners who complete Governance in the European Union will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
European Law Expert
European Law Expert
European Law Experts provide legal advice and support on matters related to EU law. This course would be highly beneficial for someone in this role because it covers the legal framework of the European Union, including its institutions, decision-making procedures, and enforcement mechanisms. This knowledge would enable someone to provide informed legal advice on EU-related matters and stay up-to-date with the latest legal developments in the EU.
EU Lobbyist
EU Lobbyist
EU Lobbyists advocate for the interests of their clients before EU institutions. This course would be very helpful for someone in this role because it provides a thorough understanding of the EU's decision-making processes, stakeholder involvement, and policy-making procedures. This knowledge would enable someone to effectively represent their clients' interests and navigate the complex EU policy landscape.
Academic Researcher (European Studies)
Academic Researcher (European Studies)
Academic Researchers specializing in European Studies conduct research on various aspects of the European Union. This course would be a valuable asset for someone in this role because it provides a comprehensive overview of the EU's governance system, policy-making procedures, and stakeholder involvement. This knowledge would enable someone to conduct in-depth research on EU-related topics and contribute to a deeper understanding of the EU's political, economic, and social dynamics.
Project Manager (EU Funded Projects)
Project Manager (EU Funded Projects)
Project Managers oversee the implementation of EU-funded projects. This course would be very beneficial for someone in this role because it provides a thorough understanding of the EU's funding mechanisms, project management procedures, and stakeholder involvement. This knowledge would enable someone to effectively manage EU-funded projects and ensure their successful implementation.
European Policy Advisor
European Policy Advisor
European Policy Advisors provide advice and support to organizations on policy issues related to the European Union. This course would be a valuable asset for someone in this role because it offers insights into the EU's governance system, including its policy-making processes, stakeholder involvement, and role in world politics. This knowledge would enable someone to effectively advise organizations on how to navigate the EU's policy landscape.
Teacher (Political Science or European Studies)
Teacher (Political Science or European Studies)
Teachers of Political Science or European Studies educate students about political systems, institutions, and processes. This course would be a valuable asset for someone in this role because it provides a comprehensive overview of the European Union's governance system, policy-making procedures, and stakeholder involvement. This knowledge would enable someone to effectively teach students about the EU and its role in European and global affairs.
Government Relations Specialist
Government Relations Specialist
Government Relations Specialists promote their organization's agendas with government entities at the local, state, and federal levels. This course would be a great primer for someone interested in a career in this field because it provides a comprehensive grounding in the European Union and its governance, including an understanding of the EU's institutions, policy-making procedures, and stakeholder involvement. This background would enable someone to effectively navigate the complex world of government relations.
Journalist (European Affairs)
Journalist (European Affairs)
Journalists specializing in European Affairs report on EU-related news and developments. This course would be a valuable asset for someone in this role because it provides a deep understanding of the EU's governance system, policy-making procedures, and stakeholder involvement. This knowledge would enable someone to accurately and effectively report on EU-related issues and provide informed analysis to the public.
International Relations Analyst
International Relations Analyst
International Relations Analysts research and analyze international political, economic, and social issues. This course would provide a useful foundation for someone in this role because it covers the European Union's role in world politics, including its foreign policy objectives, multilateral and bilateral relations, and response to crises. This knowledge would enable someone to better understand the dynamics of international relations and provide informed analysis on EU-related issues.
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
Political Scientists study political systems, institutions, and processes. This course would be beneficial for someone in this field because it provides a comprehensive overview of the European Union's governance system, including its institutions, policy-making procedures, and stakeholder involvement. This knowledge would enable someone to conduct research and analysis on EU-related topics and contribute to a deeper understanding of the EU's political dynamics.
Risk Analyst (Political Risk)
Risk Analyst (Political Risk)
Risk Analysts specializing in political risk assess and mitigate political risks for organizations. This course would be a helpful foundation for someone in this role because it provides insights into the EU's governance system, decision-making procedures, and response to crises. This knowledge would enable someone to better understand the political landscape of the EU and assess potential political risks that could impact organizations.
International Development Consultant
International Development Consultant
International Development Consultants provide advice and support to organizations working in the field of international development. This course may be helpful for someone in this role because it offers insights into the EU's role in global development and its cooperation with other international organizations. This knowledge would enable someone to better understand the EU's development agenda and contribute to the effective implementation of development projects.
Public Policy Analyst
Public Policy Analyst
Public Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues. This course may be useful for someone in this role because it provides insights into the EU's policy-making processes, stakeholder involvement, and governance system. This knowledge would enable someone to better understand the dynamics of public policymaking in the EU context.
Think Tank Researcher
Think Tank Researcher
Think Tank Researchers conduct research and analysis on public policy issues. This course may be useful for someone in this role because it provides insights into the EU's policy-making processes, stakeholder involvement, and governance system. This knowledge would enable someone to better understand the dynamics of public policymaking in the EU context and conduct informed research on EU-related issues.
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Service Officers represent their country's interests abroad. This course may be useful for someone in this role because it provides a comprehensive overview of the European Union's role in world politics, including its foreign policy objectives, multilateral and bilateral relations, and response to crises. This knowledge would enable someone to better understand the EU's foreign policy and represent their country's interests effectively in the context of the EU.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/eaued4/governance
Reading list
We've selected seven books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Governance in the European Union.
Offers a concise introduction to the history, institutions, and challenges facing the European Union. It provides a useful overview of the subject matter covered in the course.
Examines the European Union's role in global affairs. It provides insights into the EU's foreign policy, trade, and development cooperation policies.
Save
Examines the role of interest groups in EU policy-making. It provides insights into how interest groups influence the EU's decision-making process.
Provides a comparative analysis of the institutions and processes of governance in the European Union. It offers valuable insights into the different ways in which the EU is governed.
Examines the political economy of the European Union. It provides insights into the economic and political factors that shape EU policy-making.
Provides a historical overview of European integration. It offers insights into the origins, development, and challenges of the European Union.
Provides a concise introduction to the European Union. It useful resource for those who are new to the subject.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/eaued4/governance
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Effort
4 to 6 hours per week for 7 weeks
Level
Intermediate
Via
edX
Institution
KU Leuven
Instructors
Katja Biedenkopf
Kolja Raube
Wouter Wolfs
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Develops understanding of the European Union's multi-level governance system
Provides a solid foundation for understanding the complex interplay of EU institutions, actors, and processes
Examines the EU's evolving role on the global stage
Taught by reputable instructors with expertise in European integration
May require prior knowledge of or interest in European politics
Covers a wide range of topics, which may appeal to learners with varying interests
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