European Integration

Abstract

Switzerland in the context of European integrationThe course (lecture and tutorial) deals with the theory, development and central policy areas of European integration as well as the structures and processes of the EU as a political system. The course systematically links this basic knowledge with an analysis of the bilateral relationship between Switzerland and the EU.

Objective

The idea that Switzerland's relationship with the EU is at a ‘crossroads’ is a cliché that has been used repeatedly in recent decades. But could it be true this time? Since the breakdown of the negotiations on a framework agreement and the recently launched attempt for a third package of bilateral treaties, there is more uncertainty than ever in the Swiss-EU relationship. Switzerland is once again faced with the decision between greater proximity or isolation. The seminar places the bilateral relationship between Switzerland and the EU in the broader context of European integration. It helps to understand the EU as a highly developed instrument of transnational problem solving and as a special political system. It provides basic knowledge about the history, institutions, procedures and policy areas of the EU and offers an introduction to important approaches in integration theory and political science analyses of European integration. The seminar systematically links this basic knowledge of the political system of the EU with an examination of the logic, development and perspective of the bilateral relationship between the EU and Switzerland.

Content

Course plan 1. A brief history of European integration 2. The European Union as a political system 3. The European Union as a community of law 4. The European Union as a system of differentiated integration 5. Theories of integration: Why integration? 6. Ten years of polycrisis: What next for the EU? 7. A brief history of the relationship between Switzerland and the EU 8. Trade 9. Free movement of persons 10. Justice and home affairs, foreign affairs, migration 11. Research, cohesion, energy 12. Domestic political discourse and public opinion in Switzerland 13. Tne future of Switzerland-EU relations

Resources