This book examines the political dynamics and complexities of the European Council at a time of seemingly chronic crisis and rapid political change. Providing insight into the everyday workings of this critically important EU institution, it covers: why the European Council matters; its roles and responsibilities; its impact on the EU over time, including in response to the Russian War and the COVID-19 pandemic; and the role that the European Council might play in the EU's uncertain future. Including pedagogical features such as boxes, tables and graphics to help study and revision, the book also covers under-researched areas such as:
- The relationship and rivalry of the European Council President and the European Commission President
- The role of European political parties in summits and debates
- Communication around the European council, including the use of social media, doorstops, and press briefings
- The background of members of the European Council
- How national coalition government affects leaders' participation in the European Council
- The involvement of the European Council in the EU policy cycle
- The changing nature and political significance of European Council meetings and conclusions
Designed for students of the EU, comparative European politics and international relations, this book is a concise introduction to the EU's collective leadership body, its key office holders, and its relation to member states.

- 449 pages
- English
- ePUB (mobile friendly)
- Available on iOS & Android
eBook - ePub
Understanding the European Council
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Table of contents
- Cover
- Halftitle Page
- Dedication Page
- Title Page
- Table of Contents
- List of Illustrations
- Preface
- Acronyms and Abbreviations
- Introduction
- Theme 1 Comprehending the European Council
- 1 What the European Council Does
- 2 The Rise of the European Council
- 3 Composition and Meetings
- Theme 2 The Members of the European Council
- 4 National Leaders
- 5 The European Council President
- 6 The European Commission President
- Theme 3 The European Council’s Working Methods
- 7 Preparation, Proceedings, and Follow-Up
- 8 European Council Conclusions and Other Outputs
- 9 Decision-Making in the European Council
- 10 Leaders’ Communication on the European Council
- Theme 4 Interaction with Other EU Institutions
- 11 The European Council and the European Commission
- 12 The European Council and the European Parliament
- 13 The European Council and the Council of the European Union
- Theme 5 Tying It All Together: The European Council in Operation
- 14 Choosing the European Union’s Institutional Leaders
- 15 Guiding the European Union: The Strategic Agenda
- 16 Reaching Agreement on the Covid-19 Recovery Fund
- 17 Enlargement Policy Towards the Western Balkans
- Conclusion
- Notes
- References and other sources
- Index
- Imprint
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Yes, you can access Understanding the European Council by Desmond Dinan,Ralf Drachenberg in PDF and/or ePUB format, as well as other popular books in Politics & International Relations & European Politics. We have over 1.5 million books available in our catalogue for you to explore.