Open Enrolment January Programmes
International Relations & Politics in the EU Peace, Conflicts & Human Rights The European Union (EU) was created in the wake of the Second World War, largely to prevent further mass conflict by focusing on economic and political integration. Beginning in 1951 with six members, the EU has grown to a current membership of 27 nations, almost half a billion citizens, covering most of the European continent. It is the first time in history that so many nations have been willing to sacrifice certain aspects of national sovereignty in order to achieve peace and stability, but also economic and social justice. The ‘European experiment’ is now an established reality. However, the future of the EU is far from certain. With Brexit, immigration challenges and the rise of the political far-right, it is poised between protecting national interests and further integration. The EU is a symbol of pan-European cooperation and diplomacy after centuries of ceaseless upheaval. Even amid ‘Euro-scepticism’ and the growing divisions created by economic austerity, the EU continues to inspire citizens all over the world.
The development of a united Europe
Inside the ‘European experiment’ True to the tradition of applied learning, the International Relations and Politics in the EU programme is not confined to the classroom. Field trips with visits to EU institutions and relevant international organisations in Brussels and The Hague allow students to deepen their understanding of the EU and its political and legal processes. They will also have the opportunity to wander through the quaint streets of Maastricht and to immerse themselves in European culture and tradition during their time off.
An intensive study abroad experience Maastricht is the ‘birthplace’ of the European Union and a symbol of pan-European identity. Maastricht University is an internationally renowned research university focused on internationalism and themes of European integration. With dozens of academic programmes in English, students cannot pick a more beautiful city in which to get to know the EU.
During the programme, students will analyse the historical, political and economic foundations of the rise of the European Union, from its post-World War II origins to the historic enlargements of 2004, 2007 and 2013. Students will also examine the present tensions within the EU and their direct relationship to the various aspects of European integration. The course focuses on the protection of human rights within the EU, especially in the context of European integration, the UN framework for the protection of fundamental freedoms and the European Convention on Human Rights. By the end of the programme, students will have received comprehensive coverage of the key political, legal and economic policy areas of the EU. This programme is ideal for students interested in exploring EU international relations, history and politics, economic and legal issues, and the global challenges and opportunities that it faces today.
“ The beauty of Maastricht, the new friends that you still talk to four months after, the snow - the things that make you wish three weeks didn’t go by so quickly. It was the most memorable experience and I would do it again and again if I had the chance!” Khang Nguyen, The University of Melbourne