This clear text provides a comprehensive introduction to the EU's history, institutions, and policies in the context of the ongoing crises the Union faces. Explaining the different theoretical perspectives used to understand the EU, the book gives students the tools they need to assess whether the Union is on a path to renewal.

John Van Oudenaren is a global fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, specializing in both EU and Russian affairs. Previously he held senior positions at the Library of Congress, including director of Scholarly and Educational Programs, director of the World Digital Library, and chief of the European Division. He has taught at the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service, the Nitze School of Advanced International Studies at Johns Hopkins University, and the Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University.