The EU’s Quest for Competitiveness: Technology, Geoeconomics and International Power Dynamics
Course Overview
Focus:
- Introduction to the EU’s institutional landscape, governance, and policy evolution with special emphasis on Europe’s pursuit of competitiveness, technological sovereignty, and resilience in global power dynamics.
Content:
- Development of the EU: From founding treaties and early cooperation to today’s strategic challenges.
- Key EU institutions: European Commission, European Parliament, European Council, Council of the EU, and their roles in setting policy and direction.
- Europe between blocs: Navigating geopolitical rivalries and the legacy of history in shaping external and internal strategies.
- Geoeconomic risks: Exposure of Europe’s supply chains, energy infrastructure, and digital technologies to geopolitical leverage.
- Technological sovereignty: Strategies to lead in areas like AI, quantum computing, and biotech; addressing innovation gaps and dependencies.
- Policy innovations: EU responses to safeguard competitiveness and security in the face of shifting power dynamics and international challenges.
Learning Outcomes
- Gain a solid understanding of EU governance, its challenges, and future-shaping innovations.
- Engage in critical thinking, discussions, and collaborative projects.
- Strengthen soft skills, rhetoric, and participate in a beginner-level German language course.
Participation & Credits
- Expectations: Active class participation, completion of readings, assignments, and group projects.
- Credits: Earn 6 ECTS for the EU Studies + 6 ECTS for German class attendance.
Target Group
- Students of all levels with an interest in EU studies, international affairs, global sustainability, or normative power regardless of prior background in the field.
