Global and European Politics: Cooperation, Contestation, and Change

This course explores the dynamics of international cooperation and integration in an era of growing contestation, fragmentation and global interdependence. It examines why and how states and non-state actors cooperate to address key transnational challenges in our changing world - and why such cooperation often falters or breaks down.

Building on theories from international relations and European studies, the course analyses both the creation and erosion of international institutions and regimes. Particular attention is given to the European Union as a key example of regional integration under pressure, where crises, disintegration tendencies and democratic challenges are reshaping the scope and legitimacy of cooperation.

Through the study of multilateral organisations, intergovernmental cooperation, and evolving forms of global and regional governance in various policy areas, students learn to critically assess the driving forces, mechanisms, and limits of collective problem-solving in global governance.