Book Publication "How the EU Really Works" (Second Edition)

A second edition of the book "How the EU Really Works" was recently published at Routledge by Olivier COSTA, Director of Studies of the Political and Governance Studies Department, and Nathalie BRACK, Academic Coordinator of the European General Studies Department.

Like its first edition, this book provides a concise analysis of the EU and its dynamics by paying particular attention to its day-to-day operation. It aims to help students and scholars understand its evolution, its institutions, its decision-making and the interactions between the EU and various actors. Avoiding abstract theorizing, the authors propose an easy to read analysis of how the Union works while recognizing the complexity of the situation. Throughout the book, the key issues of European integration are addressed: democratic deficit, politicization, the role of member states, institutional crisis and citizen involvement.

The second edition brings enriching updates and additions regarding the following:

  • Brexit, the migration crisis as well as the consequences of the 2014 EP elections for all the EU institutions;
  • An in-depth analysis of the 2014 EU elections;
  • More empirical data across the board;
  • New developments in EU decision-making such as the trilogues, and differentiated integration;
  • More in-depth discussion of the role of interest groups in EU policy-making.

This text is of key interest to students, scholars and readers interested in European Union politics and studies.

The book is available through the website of Routledge.