030337 VO Introduction to European Union Law (2025W)

The course introduces the students of the Bachelor program in International Legal Studies to European Union (EU) law.

The course discusses formal EU law, i.e. the nature of the Union and European integration, the division of powers between the EU and its member states, the sources of EU law, the structure and powers of the main EU institutions: the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council of the European Union, the European Commission, and the Court of Justice, the EU's decision-making process, the enforcement of EU law by member states. The course gives an overview into substantive EU law.

The aim of the lecture series is, within select areas, to illustrate the dynamics and system of EU law. Its aim is not to list something, but to engage the audience in thinking and, ideally, to start understanding.

Next to a lecture by the professor, the course will consist as much as possible of interactive elements or alternative teaching methods, such as videos, live quizzes, (mock) case exercises, group discussions, Q&A sessions etc.

The course will be taught in hybrid format. The first lecture will be entirely in presence. Afterwards, students can chose to follow the lecture in presence in class, watch a live stream or a recording of the lecture. Note that only the slides and audio will be live streamed/recorded, not the video of the professor and students. The recording will be available until end of June 2026. Students will benefit most from the in-class discussions, (mock) cases and quizzes, if they participate in person. It will not be possible to participate in the class discussions and ask questions if the student only participates online. Questions are only answered during class and not via email.