The course engages in a multi-disciplinary examination of the state and development of the EU’s Area of Freedom, Security and Justice (AFSJ), paying particular attention to the position of third-country nationals by focusing on the EU’s policies on borders, asylum, and migration. It will begin with a general introduction to the history of Justice and Home Affairs (JHA), by placing cooperation in this field within its wider political context, emphasising its relationship with the establishment of a Single Market and the EU as an area without internal frontiers for the realisation of trans-national freedom of movement. It will then examine the rapid evolution of EU competence and institutional arrangements and the effect these have had on the formulation and expansion of law and policy in relation to borders, migration and asylum. The course will continue with an in-depth critical evaluation of the main components of these policies, in both their internal and external facets, taking into consideration the role of security and technology. Attention will be paid to the decision-making processes, the body of legislation and its implementation, as well as the impact of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights in shaping policy responses. The rise of new agencies, specially Frontex, and their role as internal and external players in the JHA framework will also be explored.
Professor: Violeta MORENO-LAX