The European Union Politics and Policies

Thoroughly revised, the seventh edition of this accessible and highly respected text provides a rigorous yet digestible introduction to the European Union. Additionally, it authoritatively explains developments that continue to bring challenges to this powerful institution in times of great political change. Key features: Clearly covers the history, governing institutions, and policies of the EU; Fully updated with new tables, figures, and photographs; In-text features such as Chapter Overviews, Questions to Consider, and Further Reading encourage deeper research and debate; Sustained discussion of transformative and historical change in the upheaval of Brexit and its ramifications, and the future relationship of the UK with the EU; Through reflection on destabilizing issues such as immigration and the years of refugee crisis in Europe, the continued crisis in the eurozone, tensions with Poland and Hungary, Euroskepticism, Russia, and the rise of populism; Increased coverage throughout of women or minorities within the EU. Jonathan Olsen presents the EU as one of the world's economic and political superpowers, which has brought far-reaching changes to the lives of Europeans and has helped its member states to take a newly assertive role on the global stage. Essential reading for students of European and EU politics, this book offers an up-to-the-minute look at both the opportunities and existential threats facing the EU.

Introduction Part I: History 1. What Is the European Union? 2. Origins: The Road to Paris and Rome 3. Stagnation and Renewal: The Single European Act and Maastricht 4. Unity and Upheaval: The Eurozone, the Treaty of Lisbon, and Crises in the EU Part II: Institutions 5. The European Commission 6. The Council of Ministers and the European Council 7. The European Parliament 8. The European Court of Justice 9. The European Central Bank and other EU Bodies and Agencies 10. Representing Public Opinion in the EU Part III: Policies 11. Public Policy and the Budget of the EU 12. The Single Market, Monetary Union, and Regional Development Policy 13. Agricultural and Environmental Policy 14. Social Policy, Justice and Home Affairs, and other Policies 15. Security and Global Power 16. The EU and the World Conclusions

Jonathan Olsen is Professor and Chair of the Department of History and Political Science at Texas Woman's University, US.