Today+POLI+471

Items to use next time I teach this course:

Can the European center hold? http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/03/opinion/severgnini-can-the-european-center-hold.html?hp&rref=opinion/international

Europeans united, in hating Europe http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/02/opinion/europeans-united-in-hating-europe.html?hpw&rref=opinion

The EU need Turkey http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/21/opinion/the-eu-needs-turkey.html?hp&rref=opinion/international&_r=0

Learn Hardball, Europe http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/26/opinion/learn-hardball-europe.html?hpw&rref=opinion


 * Thursday, 5 December**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Final Exam**

Thursday, 12 December 9:45-11:45 a.m.

You have been asked to speak at the December meeting of the Azusa Chamber of Commerce. Your topic is "Current Issues in the European Union."

Based on the outline and articles noted within our study guide, what would be the text of your speech? http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/Final


 * III. In class today:**

EU moves to prevent new migrant deaths http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-25215691

Dispute over immigration widens between Britain and EU http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/28/world/europe/cameron-urges-limits-on-immigrants-welfare-benefits.html?src=rechp&pagewanted=all

[Read carefully this great article by a U.S. political science professor who is currently a Fulbright scholar in Ukraine. Here is a link to his website: http://www.npetro.net/2.html] "How the EU pushed Ukraine East" http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/04/opinion/how-the-eu-pushed-ukraine-east.html?hp&rref=opinion&pagewanted=all

Ukrainian protesters see potent ally in Ukrainian Orthodox Church http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/05/world/europe/ukrainian-protesters-find-powerful-ally-in-orthodox-church.html?hp&_r=0&pagewanted=all


 * Tuesday, 3 December**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Item that Mary-Kate brought up in last class**

What is a Hedge Fund? http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/what-is-a-hedge-fund.html http://www.barclayhedge.com/research/educational-articles/hedge-fund-strategy-definition/what-is-a-hedge-fund.html


 * III. Homework for Thursday, 5 December**

[Read carefully this great article by a U.S. political science professor who is currently a Fulbright scholar in Ukraine.] "How the EU pushed Ukraine East" http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/04/opinion/how-the-eu-pushed-ukraine-east.html?hp&rref=opinion&pagewanted=all

Dispute over immigration widens between Britain and EU http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/28/world/europe/cameron-urges-limits-on-immigrants-welfare-benefits.html?src=rechp&pagewanted=all

EU moves to prevent new migrant deaths http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-25215691


 * IV. In class today**

Britain and the "Quit Europe" Tide http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/27/opinion/britain-and-the-quit-europe-tide.html?hpw&rref=opinion&pagewanted=all

Q & A: EU-Russia battleground http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-25088613

EU-Russia rivalry looms over Vilnius summit (great map at bottom of article) http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-25133721

Europe's failure on Ukraine: Three Lessons http://euobserver.com/opinion/122226


 * V. Study guide for final exam**

Thursday, 12 December 9:45-11:45 a.m.

The question will be something like this:

You have been asked to speak at the December meeting of the Azusa Chamber of Commerce. Your topic is "Current Issues in the European Union." Based on the following outline and articles noted within it [from our study guide], what would be the text of your speech?

Let's run over the outline and what I would expect you to comment upon. http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/Final


 * Tuesday, 26 November**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Homework for our remaining class sessions**

//**Tuesday, 3 December**//

Britain and the "Quit Europe" Tide http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/27/opinion/britain-and-the-quit-europe-tide.html?hpw&rref=opinion&pagewanted=all

Q & A: EU-Russia battleground http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-25088613

EU-Russia rivalry looms over Vilnius summit (great map at bottom of article) http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-25133721

Europe's failure on Ukraine: Three Lessons http://euobserver.com/opinion/122226

//**Thursday, 5 December**//

Dispute over immigration widens between Britain and EU http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/28/world/europe/cameron-urges-limits-on-immigrants-welfare-benefits.html?src=rechp&pagewanted=all

Brussels on guard over UK's Romania, Bulgaria plan http://euobserver.com/justice/122229

Germany and France back UK migration controls http://euobserver.com/tickers/122274

//**Thursday, 12 December**//

Final exam: 9:45-11:45 a.m.

The question will be something like this:

You have been asked to speak at the December meeting of the Azusa Chamber of Commerce. Your topic is "Current Issues in the European Union." Based on the following outline and articles noted within it [from our study guide], what would be the text of your speech?


 * III. Items since we last met**

EU announces Iran nuclear deal (note Catherine Ashton) http://euobserver.com/foreign/122209

9 questions about Iran's nuclear program you were too embarrassed to ask http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/worldviews/wp/2013/11/25/9-questions-about-irans-nuclear-program-you-were-too-embarrassed-to-ask/

EU and Ukraine: What went wrong? http://euobserver.com/foreign/122218

Merkel's quest for consensus http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/25/world/europe/merkel-seeks-consensus-but-party-talks-may-still-fall-short.html?ref=international-home&_r=0&pagewanted=all


 * IV. In class today**

Skeptics See Euro Eroding European Unity http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/12/business/international/skeptics-see-euro-as-working-against-european-unity.html?ref=international-home&pagewanted=all

Euro zone suffers from integration fatigue http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/25/us-eurozone-integration-fatigue-idUSBRE99O0F620131025


 * Thursday, 21 November**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Homework for our remaining class sessions**

//**Tuesday, 26 November**//

Skeptics See Euro Eroding European Unity http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/12/business/international/skeptics-see-euro-as-working-against-european-unity.html?ref=international-home&pagewanted=all

Euro zone suffers from integration fatigue http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/25/us-eurozone-integration-fatigue-idUSBRE99O0F620131025

The EU and the UK - the single market (BBC News) http://www.bbc.co.uk/democracylive/europe-21658420

US-EU Trade Deal: Six Reasons to Care (BBC News) http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-22909209

//**Tuesday, 3 December**//

Religion articles TBA

//**Thursday, 5 December**//

Religion articles TBA

//**Thursday, 12 December**//

Final exam: 9:45-11:45 a.m.

The question will be something like this:

You have been asked to speak at the December meeting of the Azusa Chamber of Commerce. Your topic is "Current Issues in the European Union." Based on the following outline and articles noted within it [from our study guide], what would be the text of your speech?


 * III. Items since we last met**

MEP's push to leave Strasbourg site with treaty change http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-25014911

MEPs back women quotas bill http://euobserver.com/tickers/122178

EU-Ukraine deal may not fly http://euobserver.com/foreign/122153

Eurozone ministers are losing patience with Greece http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-25032785

Swedish Foreign Minister: Turkey is profoundly stupid to leave observer status with EPP http://euobserver.com/tickers/122172

Seven EU states create military drone "club" http://euobserver.com/defence/122167

Will Europe benefit from China's grand new strategy? http://euobserver.com/opinion/122138


 * IV. In class today**

//A. European Parliament LIVE// http://www.bbc.co.uk/democracylive/europe-24998244

//B. Assigned reading for today [do these first]//

Young and educated in Europe, but desperate for jobs http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/16/world/europe/youth-unemployement-in-europe.html?ref=international-home&_r=0

Ireland becomes first euro country to quit bailout program http://euobserver.com/news/122113

Greece returns to haunt euro ministers http://euobserver.com/news/122076

Italy and Spain close to breaking euro rules http://euobserver.com/economic/122123

Germany challenges use of euro zone cash to repair banks http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/14/us-eu-banks-idUSBRE9AD1BV20131114

Europe's Financial Crisis--in Plain English (New York Times) http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/04/magazine/adam-davidson-european-finance.html?pagewanted=all


 * Tuesday, 19 November**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Homework for next few sessions**

//**Thursday, 21 November**//

Young and educated in Europe, but desperate for jobs http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/16/world/europe/youth-unemployement-in-europe.html?ref=international-home&_r=0

Ireland becomes first euro country to quit bailout program http://euobserver.com/news/122113

Greece returns to haunt euro ministers http://euobserver.com/news/122076

Italy and Spain close to breaking euro rules http://euobserver.com/economic/122123

Germany challenges use of euro zone cash to repair banks http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/14/us-eu-banks-idUSBRE9AD1BV20131114

Europe's Financial Crisis--in Plain English (New York Times) http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/04/magazine/adam-davidson-european-finance.html?pagewanted=all

//**Tuesday, 26 November**//

Skeptics See Euro Eroding European Unity http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/12/business/international/skeptics-see-euro-as-working-against-european-unity.html?ref=international-home&pagewanted=all

Euro zone suffers from integration fatigue http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/25/us-eurozone-integration-fatigue-idUSBRE99O0F620131025

The EU and the UK - the single market (BBC News) http://www.bbc.co.uk/democracylive/europe-21658420

US-EU Trade Deal: Six Reasons to Care (BBC News) http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-22909209

//**Tuesday, 3 December**//

Religion articles TBA

//**Thursday, 5 December**//

Religion articles TBA

//**Thursday, 12 December**//

Final exam: 9:45-11:45 a.m.

The question will be something like this:

You have been asked to speak at the December meeting of the Azusa Chamber of Commerce. Your topic is "Current Issues in the European Union." Based on the following outline and articles noted within it [from our study guide], what would be the text of your speech?


 * III. Items since we last met**

Gazprom warns of EU winter catastrophe http://euobserver.com/economic/122122

Key items on European Parliament agenda this week http://euobserver.com/agenda/122125


 * IV. In class today**

//A. European Parliament LIVE// http://www.bbc.co.uk/democracylive/europe-24998244

//B. Assigned reading for today [do these first]//

Turning Up the Volume on Human Rights in Europe http://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/09/world/europe/09iht-letter09.html

Glossary: Eurojust http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/glossary/eurojust_en.htm

How does Europol work? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europol https://www.europol.europa.eu/

Europol and the EU https://www.europol.europa.eu/content/page/europol-eu-121

Difference between Eurojust and Europol http://eurojust.europa.eu/Practitioners/Eurojust-Support-JITs/JITs/Pages/roles-eurojust-europol.aspx

Difference between Europol and Intepol https://www.europol.europa.eu/content/faq/what-difference-between-europol-and-interpol-101

Thursday, 14 November


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Homework for next few sessions**


 * //Tuesday, 19 November//**

Turning Up the Volume on Human Rights in Europe http://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/09/world/europe/09iht-letter09.html

Glossary: Eurojust http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/glossary/eurojust_en.htm

How does Europol work? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europol https://www.europol.europa.eu/

Europol and the EU https://www.europol.europa.eu/content/page/europol-eu-121

Difference between Europol and Intepol https://www.europol.europa.eu/content/faq/what-difference-between-europol-and-interpol-101

//**Thursday, 21 November**//

Skeptics See Euro Eroding European Unity http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/12/business/international/skeptics-see-euro-as-working-against-european-unity.html?ref=international-home&pagewanted=all

Euro zone suffers from integration fatigue http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/25/us-eurozone-integration-fatigue-idUSBRE99O0F620131025

Europe's Financial Crisis--in Plain English (New York Times) http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/04/magazine/adam-davidson-european-finance.html?pagewanted=all

The EU and the UK - the single market (BBC News) http://www.bbc.co.uk/democracylive/europe-21658420

US-EU Trade Deal: Six Reasons to Care (BBC News) http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-22909209

European Commission to push EU leaders on single telecoms market http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/23/net-us-eu-summit-telecoms-idUSBRE99M0H820131023

//**Tuesday, 26 November**//

US Mission to the European Union http://useu.usmission.gov/

Delegation of the European Union to the United States http://www.euintheus.org/

//**Tuesday, 3 December**//

Religion articles TBA

//**Thursday, 5 December**//

Religion articles TBA


 * III. Items since we last met**

Jack Straw regrets opening door to East European migrants http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-24924219

Anti-EU parties plan strategy to woo Europe's voters http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-24924378

Ukraine faces a key decision on alignment with Europe http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/ukraine-faces-a-key-decision-on-alignment-with-europe/2013/11/12/075d36f4-470d-11e3-bf0c-cebf37c6f484_story.html

NATO builds $1Billion Headquarters as allies cut military spending http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/13/us-nato-hq-idUSBRE9AC0ST20131113

Malta can sell EU citizenship http://euobserver.com/justice/122101


 * IV. In class today**

MEPs approve EU border surveillance system (Eurosur/FRONTEX) http://euobserver.com/justice/121747

The Mediterranean Sea: a migration border http://euobserver.com/opinion/121947

Goals of Eurosur border scheme questioned http://www.dw.de/goals-of-eurosur-border-scheme-questioned/a-17150945


 * V. Research paper**

I don't think we will have one.


 * VI. Final exam study guide**

Here is how it is shaping up: http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/Final


 * Tuesday, 12 November**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Homework for Thursday, 14 November**

How do you keep out newcomers from non-EU countries

Eurosur/FRONTEX MEPs approve EU border surveillance system (Eurosur/FRONTEX) http://euobserver.com/justice/121747

Eurosur/FRONTEX http://www.frontex.europa.eu/eurosur

The Mediterranean Sea: a migration border http://euobserver.com/opinion/121947

EU border surveillance: MEPs approve Eurosur operating rules http://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/news-room/content/20131007IPR21624/html/EU-border-surveillance-MEPs-approve-Eurosur-operating-rules

European external border surveillance system (EUROSUR) http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/justice_freedom_security/free_movement_of_persons_asylum_immigration/l14579_en.htm

Goals of Eurosur border scheme questioned http://www.dw.de/goals-of-eurosur-border-scheme-questioned/a-17150945


 * III. Items since we last met**

German parties urge referendums on major EU decisions http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/12/us-germany-europe-referendums-idUSBRE9AB0DR20131112

Trade and Finance dominate Brussels this week http://euobserver.com/agenda/122039

EU commission ups pressure on Germany, France http://euobserver.com/economic/122067

Barroso rules out third term http://euobserver.com/tickers/122070

Jordan looks set to take Saudi Security Council seat http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/08/us-un-saudi-jordan-idUSBRE9A712T20131108

Dutch hard power: choosing decline http://www.aei.org/outlook/foreign-and-defense-policy/regional/europe/dutch-hard-power-choosing-decline/

Spying Scandal Alters U.S. Ties With Allies and Raises Talk of Policy Shift http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/12/world/spying-scandal-alters-us-ties-with-allies-and-raises-talk-of-policy-shift.html?ref=international-home

EU negotiators clinch deal on 2014 EU budget http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-24909708

France: a troubled republic http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-24910099


 * IV. Research: our term papers**

a. Some updates to our special wiki page: POLI 471 Research http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/POLI+471+Research

b. How should we facilitate your access to copies of the articles assigned. [Coordinate with Mary-Kate]


 * V. In class today, Tuesday, 12 November: assigned homework articles**

Note: on final exam, I will be expecting you to use information from these assigned articles.

Q & A: Schengen Agreement http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-13194723

Germany to veto Schengen enlargement (Romania and Bulgaria) [March 4, 2013) http://euobserver.com/justice/119261

Europe turns its eyes to migration policies http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/26/world/europe/europe-turns-its-eye-to-migration-policies-amid-another-sea-rescue.html?ref=international-home

Germany shows little sympathy for Italy on migration http://euobserver.com/justice/121910

EU leaders reject calls for action on Europe's migration problem http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/25/us-eu-migrants-idUSBRE99O0NB20131025

EU voters have not warmed to immigration http://euobserver.com/political/121838

Thursday, 7 November


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Homework for Tuesday, 12 November**

Q & A: Schengen Agreement http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-13194723

Germany to veto Schengen enlargement (Romania and Bulgaria) [March 4, 2013) http://euobserver.com/justice/119261

Europe turns its eyes to migration policies http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/26/world/europe/europe-turns-its-eye-to-migration-policies-amid-another-sea-rescue.html?ref=international-home

Germany shows little sympathy for Italy on migration http://euobserver.com/justice/121910

EU leaders reject calls for action on Europe's migration problem http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/25/us-eu-migrants-idUSBRE99O0NB20131025

EU voters have not warmed to immigration http://euobserver.com/political/121838


 * III. Items since we last met**

Schulz named 'candidate designate' for commission post http://euobserver.com/political/122004

NATO war games worry Moscow http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/06/us-nato-exercise-idUSBRE9A517P20131106


 * IV. Some other resources related to questions we had in class**

//1. Lisbon Treaty//

Q & A: The Lisbon Treaty http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/6901353.stm

Lisbon Treaty http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lisbon_Treaty

//2. United Nations//

United Nations Fast Facts (CNN) http://www.cnn.com/2013/09/03/world/united-nations-fast-facts/index.html

UN Security Council Fast Facts (CNN) http://www.cnn.com/2013/09/03/world/united-nations-security-council-fast-facts/

United Nations (best overall article I could find) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations

List of specialized agencies of the United Nations http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_specialized_agencies_of_the_United_Nations

UNICEF [I'm still not clear where it fits on the UN organizational chart] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UNICEF

Relationship between the European Union and the United Nations http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Union_and_the_United_Nations


 * IV. In class today, Thursday, 7 November: assigned homework articles**

Note: on final exam, I will be expecting you to use information from these assigned articles.

Nato chief: EU soft power is 'no power at all' []

Europe's Shrinking Military Spending under Scrutiny []

Better defence spending needed to back up EU 'principles' []

MEPs: EU needs defence force 'under Union command' []


 * V. Research paper**

Some updates to our special wiki page: POLI 471 Research http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/POLI+471+Research


 * Tuesday, November 5**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Homework for Thursday, November 7**

Note: on final exam, I will be expecting you to use information from these assigned articles.

Nato chief: EU soft power is 'no power at all' []

Europe's Shrinking Military Spending under Scrutiny []

Better defence spending needed to back up EU 'principles' []

MEPs: EU needs defence force 'under Union command' []


 * III. In class today, Tuesday, 5 November: assigned homework articles**

Glossary: NATO http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/glossary/nato_en.htm

Sweden: Who needs Nato, when you have the Lisbon Treaty? http://euobserver.com/defence/119894

NATO-EU: A Strategic Partnership http://www.nato.int/cps/en/natolive/topics_49217.htm

Nato wants EU countries to buy more drones http://euobserver.com/defence/121506


 * IV. Research paper**

Go to our special wiki page: POLI 471 Research http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/POLI+471+Research

Let's me walk you through what is on there. I want us to work from these sources.


 * Thursday, 31 October**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Homework for Tuesday, November 5**

Who is in NATO but not in EU (22 of 28 are in NATO)

Glossary: NATO http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/glossary/nato_en.htm

Sweden: Who needs Nato, when you have the Lisbon Treaty? http://euobserver.com/defence/119894

NATO-EU: A Strategic Partnership http://www.nato.int/cps/en/natolive/topics_49217.htm

Nato wants EU countries to buy more drones http://euobserver.com/defence/121506


 * III. Items since our last class session**

Barroso warns of xenophobia and nationalism http://euobserver.com/tickers/121953

Chocolate factory in Ukraine a trade war victim http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/30/business/international/ukrainian-chocolates-caught-in-trade-war-between-europe-and-russia.html?hp&_r=0&pagewanted=all

Finance bosses say UK needs to stay in EU but reforms needed http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2013/10/29/business/29reuters-britain-europe-financials.html?hp


 * IV. In class today, Thursday, 31 October**

Q&A: EU External Action Service http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-11941411

Catherine Ashton's EU Soft Power http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-23514483

Merkel says an EU vote will not be decisive on who is next Commission President [I initially had incorrect link to this article: fixed at 7:28 a.m. today] http://euobserver.com/foreign/121906

The balance of power in the current European Parliament is crucial for understanding the issues at stake in the 2014 European elections http://blogs.lse.ac.uk/europpblog/2013/10/24/the-balance-of-power-in-the-current-european-parliament-is-crucial-for-understanding-the-issues-at-stake-in-the-2014-european-elections/


 * V. Let's play around a bit with these two websites links from the European Parliament article above.**

Vote Watch Europe http://www.votewatch.eu/

My Vote 2014 EU http://www.myvote2014.eu/en/home


 * VI. Research paper**--if we have time today, otherwise more on Tuesday


 * Tuesday, 29 October**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Homework for Thursday, 31 October**

Q&A: EU External Action Service http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-11941411

Catherine Ashton's EU Soft Power http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-23514483

The balance of power in the current European Parliament is crucial for understanding the issues at stake in the 2014 European elections http://blogs.lse.ac.uk/europpblog/2013/10/24/the-balance-of-power-in-the-current-european-parliament-is-crucial-for-understanding-the-issues-at-stake-in-the-2014-european-elections/

Merkel says an EU vote will not be decisive on who is next Commission President [I initially had incorrect link to this article: fixed at 7:28 a.m. today] http://euobserver.com/foreign/121906


 * III. Schedule for rest of semester**

Go to this page on our wiki: http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/POLI+471+Content


 * IV. Items since our last class session**

Facing vote on European subsidies, fisherman cling to way of life http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/23/business/international/as-eu-subsidies-vote-nears-fishermen-cling-to-way-of-life.html?ref=international-home&pagewanted=all

EU say distrust of US on spying may harm terror fight http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-24668286

World boxing champ Klitschko to run for Ukraine president in 2015 http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/24/us-ukraine-klitschko-idUSBRE99N10U20131024

Brussels takes post-summit nap this WEEK http://euobserver.com/agenda/121917

Risking Russia's ire, Georgia seeks closer ties with Europe http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/28/us-georgia-election-idUSBRE99R0Q920131028


 * V. Research paper thoughts**

//**a. Major general sources**//

Religion, Ethics, and Politics in World Affairs (Santa Clara University) Europe http://www.scu.edu/ethics-center/world-affairs/politics/By_Countries_Regions/Europe.cfm

//**b. Katharina von Schnurbein**// EU person for outreach to religious entities

Bureau of Europe Policy Advisers: Outreach Team http://ec.europa.eu/bepa/activities/outreach-team/index_en.htm

Katharina von Schnurbein bio http://ec.europa.eu/bepa/docs/cv/katharina_von_schnurbein.pdf

EU plans more help for mothers (mentions Schnurbein) http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7649378.stm

Ihr Herz schlagt fur Europa http://www.pnp.de/region_und_lokal/landkreis_regen/regen/521635_Ihr-Herz-schlaegt-fuer-Europa.html

//**c. General big heading outline for paper**//

History Political parties based on religion (Protestant or Catholic) Religious issues in your country Religious issues which relate to EU


 * VI. In class today**

Dinner with Martin Schulz http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/c76118f6-acd7-11e2-9454-00144feabdc0.html

A day in the life of Jaume Duch: European Parliament's media spokesperson http://euobserver.com/videos/114171

A day in the life of David O'Sullivan: chief operating officer in the EU's diplomatic service, the EEAS http://euobserver.com/videos/113279

A day in the life of Sharon Bowles: British Liberal MEP/chair of Parliament's Econ and Monetary Affairs Committee http://euobserver.com/videos/115624

A day in the life of a Brussels correspondent: Polish broadcast journalist Dorota Bawolek http://euobserver.com/videos/113280

A day in the life of an EU affairs consultant: Kerstin Duhme, managing director of FTI Consulting http://euobserver.com/videos/116097


 * Thursday, 24 October**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Homework for Tuesday, 29 October**

Dinner with Martin Schulz http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/c76118f6-acd7-11e2-9454-00144feabdc0.html

A day in the life of Jaume Duch: European Parliament's media spokesperson http://euobserver.com/videos/114171

A day in the life of David O'Sullivan: chief operating officer in the EU's diplomatic service, the EEAS http://euobserver.com/videos/113279

A day in the life of Sharon Bowles: British Liberal MEP/chair of Parliament's Econ and Monetary Affairs Committee http://euobserver.com/videos/115624

A day in the life of a Brussels correspondent: Polish broadcast journalist Dorota Bawolek http://euobserver.com/videos/113280

A day in the life of an EU affairs consultant: Kerstin Duhme, managing director of FTI Consulting http://euobserver.com/videos/116097


 * III. Items since our last class session**

Russia Putting a Strong Arm on Moldova http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/23/world/europe/russia-putting-a-strong-arm-on-neighbors.html?src=twrhp&pagewanted=all

EU ministers urge Ukraine to stop bluffing on Tymoshenko http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/22/us-ukraine-tymoshenko-idUSBRE99L10O20131022

Armenia’s choice and the Eastern Partnership http://blogs.euobserver.com/popescu/

Italy to demand action on migrant crisis at EU summit http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/22/us-italy-migrants-idUSBRE99L0JA20131022

Germany and France united in fury over U.S. spying accusations http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/24/us-eu-summit-idUSBRE99N0BJ20131024


 * IV. Research: which country have you settled on?**

http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/POLI+471+Research
 * V. Research: What major general sources can we develop from the Research page?**

Focus first on the General Europe material from Santa Clara University. Then on the general sources that appear on the various country pages (France, for instance).

Religion, Ethics, and Politics in World Affairs (Santa Clara University) Europe http://www.scu.edu/ethics-center/world-affairs/politics/By_Countries_Regions/Europe.cfm

Religion, Ethics, and Politics in World Affairs (Santa Clara University) France http://www.scu.edu/ethics-center/world-affairs/politics/By_Countries_Regions/France.cfm


 * Tuesday, 22 October**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**

http://www.x-rates.com/calculator/?from=EUR&to=USD&amount=1
 * Euro/Dollar exchange rate: 1.00 Euro=1.3753 US Dollars**


 * II. Homework for Thursday, 24 October: Research**

I will explain what I mean. See below under "RESEARCH"

http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/Mid-term
 * III. Mid-Term results**


 * IV. Items since our last class session**

EU leaders in Brussels this WEEK http://euobserver.com/agenda/121826

US-France snooping row to spill into EU summit http://euobserver.com/foreign/121845

Transparency ruling challenges EU states http://euobserver.com/justice/121843

EU budget a step closer after €2.7bn deal http://euobserver.com/news/121847

French far-right suspends candidate over chimp slur http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/18/us-france-nationalfront-idUSBRE99H09H20131018


 * V. In class today**: note below the section entitled "**How the EU works: a video guide**"

Let's go through it a bit.


 * VI. In class today:**

Video: A day in the life of the US ambassador to the EU http://euobserver.com/videos/116604

A More Secular Europe, Divided by the Cross http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/18/world/europe/a-more-secular-europe-divided-by-the-cross.html?ref=global-home&pagewanted=all

The EU and faith: A religious policy by stealth http://www.economist.com/blogs/erasmus/2013/07/eu-and-faith

Catherine Ashton: The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy http://www.eeas.europa.eu/ashton/index_en.htm


 * Here are some items to supplement the homework**:

William Kinnard (US Ambassador to the EU) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Kennard US Mission to the European Union http://useu.usmission.gov/

Catherine Ashton http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catherine_Ashton

A Conversation with Catherine Ashton (Wilson Center) http://www.wilsoncenter.org/event/conversation-catherine-ashton


 * RESEARCH**

Go to the separate wiki page I set up for our research. http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/POLI+471+Research

Religion, Ethics, and Politics in World Affairs (Santa Clara University) Europe http://www.scu.edu/ethics-center/world-affairs/politics/By_Countries_Regions/Europe.cfm

Religion, Ethics, and Politics in World Affairs (Santa Clara University) France http://www.scu.edu/ethics-center/world-affairs/politics/By_Countries_Regions/France.cfm

Religion, Ethics, and Politics in World Affairs (Santa Clara University) Germany http://www.scu.edu/ethics-center/world-affairs/politics/By_Countries_Regions/Germany.cfm

Religion, Ethics, and Politics in World Affairs (Santa Clara University) United Kingdom http://www.scu.edu/ethics-center/world-affairs/politics/By_Countries_Regions/UnitedKingdom.cfm

Religion, Ethics, and Politics in World Affairs (Santa Clara University) Italy http://www.scu.edu/ethics-center/world-affairs/politics/By_Countries_Regions/Italy.cfm

Religion, Ethics, and Politics in World Affairs (Santa Clara University) Netherlands http://www.scu.edu/ethics-center/world-affairs/politics/By_Countries_Regions/Netherlands.cfm

Religion, Ethics, and Politics in World Affairs (Santa Clara University) Spain/Portugal http://www.scu.edu/ethics-center/world-affairs/politics/By_Countries_Regions/Spain.cfm


 * How the EU works: a video guide**

BBC Europe correspondent Matthew Price has been exploring the corridors of power in Brussels, and here he explains what each EU institution does.


 * EU Summits [European Council]**

EU summits are meetings of a separate institution - the "European Council" - that is, when all the heads of government meet. It is their job to set the EU's main priorities and overall policy direction.

Their chairman is European Council President Herman Van Rompuy, who took office in 2009 and will step down in December 2014.


 * European Commission**

There are 28 EU commissioners - one from each member state - and each one focuses on a policy area, for example justice and home affairs, or the EU internal market.

The Commission's job is to draft EU laws and act as "guardian of the treaties". It enforces EU rules, and if a member state delays enacting an agreed policy, or simply refuses to comply, then the Commission will warn them and if necessary pursue them at the EU Court of Justice. The Commission can levy fines or suspend EU funding.

New EU laws, or revisions to existing ones, come about usually after requests from governments, Euro MPs or lobby groups. There is often pressure from all three areas for the Commission to take action.

The Commission has a staff of about 33,000.


 * Council of Ministers** [NOTE: **Council of the European Union**]

Usually this institution is **simply called "the Council"**. It represents the governments of the member states; the ministers meet regularly according to their policy area.

EU laws become part of national legislation after detailed negotiations between the Council and the European Parliament. They examine draft laws from the Commission and make recommendations, so the final text is a compromise - often the result of numerous amendments.

Voting in the Council is weighted according to a country's size and economic power, so for example Germany has a bigger weight than Luxembourg. It is called qualified majority voting (QMV). Germany, France, Italy and the UK have 29 votes each, while Malta has three.

But for taxation or foreign policy issues, such as trade agreements or sanctions, unanimity is required.


 * European Parliament**

The Lisbon Treaty, signed in 2007, gave the European Parliament more powers than it had previously.

It is the only directly elected EU institution, and the next elections will be in May 2014.

The parliament has grown because 13 countries - mostly ex-communist states in Central and Eastern Europe - have joined since 2004.

There are 766 MEPs. Germany has the most - 99, France 74, the UK and Italy 73 each, and the three smallest countries - Estonia, Luxembourg and Malta - have six each.

A majority of MEPs want the parliament to be permanently based in Brussels, to stop the expensive monthly shuttle to Strasbourg, where the full "plenary" sessions are held. But France wants to keep the Strasbourg sessions and switching to a "single seat" in Brussels would require treaty change.

MEPs now have "co-decision" powers in nearly all policy areas, meaning that they shape EU laws on an equal basis with the Council. Before the Lisbon Treaty they had little influence over agriculture, fisheries or the EU budget.


 * EUROPEAN EXTERNAL ACTION SERVICE (EEAS)**

How Europe deals with the rest of the world

The EU's new diplomatic service was one of the key innovations under the Lisbon Treaty, intended to give the EU "one voice"internationally.

The EEAS is led by Baroness Ashton from the UK, a Labour Party peer, who will step down in December 2014.

In 2012 the budget for the service was 489m euros (£422m; $649m), and it has a staff of 3,500 (1,500 in HQ and 2,000 in delegations).

There is much dispute about whether the EEAS has made EU foreign policy any more coherent. A European Parliament report this year called the service top-heavy and slow to react to crises. But Catherine Ashton's office argues that the EEAS has responded efficiently to emergencies in Africa and has achieved successes elsewhere, such as the April 2013 Serbia-Kosovo deal, reached after long, gruelling talks.


 * Thursday, 17 October**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Mid-term Exam results**: I will get the exams back to you on Tuesday.


 * III. Term paper topics**.

Let's begin planning for your topics. May I propose a common theme?

http://www.x-rates.com/calculator/?from=EUR&to=USD&amount=1
 * IV. Euro/Dollar exchange rate: 1.3649**


 * V. Travel within the EU**

Travel documents for travel within EU http://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/entry-exit/eu-citizen/index_en.htm http://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/ http://europa.eu/eu-life/travel-tourism/


 * VI. In class today: Interesting articles I have discovered since our last session**

Thanks to Karla:

a. Azerbaijan-Armenia Tensions: Regional Risks, Policy Challenges http://www.worldpoliticsreview.com/articles/12046/azerbaijan-armenia-tensions-regional-risks-policy-challenges

b. Kurdish PKK rebels 'halt Turkey pull-out' http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-24013837

Other articles:

EU leaders start looking for the next Barroso http://euobserver.com/institutional/121767

French National Front party wins bellwether by-election http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-24514843

France's National Front tops EU election survey http://euobserver.com/political/121724

Commission backs Albania-EU membership talks http://euobserver.com/news/121805

Ukraine's Tymoshenko should be free in a month: daughter http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/17/us-ukraine-tymoshenko-idUSBRE99G0EG20131017

Italy and Malta say 'No' to Frontex rules in sea rescue operations http://euobserver.com/justice/121794

MEPs call for treaty change to scrap Strasbourg seat http://euobserver.com/institutional/121790

Nato war games come at tricky time in EU-Russia relations http://euobserver.com/defence/121791


 * VII. Homework for Tuesday, 22 October**

Video: A day in the life of the US ambassador to the EU http://euobserver.com/videos/116604

A More Secular Europe, Divided by the Cross http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/18/world/europe/a-more-secular-europe-divided-by-the-cross.html?ref=global-home&pagewanted=all

The EU and faith: A religious policy by stealth http://www.economist.com/blogs/erasmus/2013/07/eu-and-faith

Catherine Ashton: The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy http://www.eeas.europa.eu/ashton/index_en.htm


 * Tuesday, 15 October**

Mid-Term Exam


 * Thursday, 10 October**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * Remember**: beyond 2 absences during the semester, you lose 10 points per absence.

http://euobserver.com/
 * IIa. European Union news [what items strike your fancy this morning]**

http://www.x-rates.com/calculator/?from=EUR&to=USD&amount=1
 * IIb. Euro/Dollar exchange rate**


 * III. Mid-term exam on Tuesday**

Bring your blue book.

Study guide material is on this special wiki page: http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/Mid-term


 * IV. Interesting articles I have discovered since our last session**

Migrant Boat Tragedy in Italy Complicates German Politics http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/11/world/europe/migrant-boat-tragedy-in-italy-complicates-german-politics.html?ref=global-home

Pakistani teenager, shot by Taliban, wins EU human rights prize http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/10/us-eu-prize-malala-idUSBRE99908X20131010

Wilfried Martens, Former Belgian Premier, Dies at 77 http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2013/10/10/world/europe/ap-eu-belgium-obit-martens.html?hpw


 * V. Map study: European Union**

European Union Countries (Member States) http://europa.eu/about-eu/countries/index_en.htm

Map of the European Union members http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/europe_map.htm

Special maps:

Turkey http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/map/turkey-map.htm

Armenia http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/map/armenia_map.htm

Azerbaijan http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/map/azerbaijan-political-map.htm

Georgia http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/map/georgia_map2.htm

Belarus http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/belarus.htm

Moldova http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/moldova.htm

Ukraine http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/ukraine.htm


 * VI. In class today: what are the main issues in these articles**

Arguments For and Against: Turkey's membership in the EU http://www.debatingeurope.eu/focus/infobox-arguments-for-and-against-turkeys-eu-membership/#.Ugl9qG3YHxM //Plus//: What articles grab your attention in the "What European political parties think" section

Ukraine’s Bumpy Road to Europe http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/02/opinion/ukraines-bumpy-road-to-europe.html?ref=global-home

Check this out: Yalta European Strategy Conference

The other Yalta conference: A global elite gathering in the Crimea http://www.economist.com/blogs/easternapproaches/2013/09/other-yalta-conference

As Ukraine looks west to Europe, Russia's shadow looms http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/01/us-eu-ukraine-russia-insight-idUSBRE99008920131001

Envoys ask Ukraine leader to pardon jailed rival to save EU deal http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/04/us-ukraine-tymoshenko-idUSBRE9930U420131004

Check out: President Viktor Yanukovych and Yulia Tymoshenko http://www.themoscowtimes.com/news/article/viktor-and-yulia-feud-holds-key-to-eu-deal-with-ukraine/487470.html

Russia halts Lithuanian dairy imports before EU summit http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/07/us-russia-lithuania-dairy-idUSBRE99604Y20131007


 * Tuesday, 8 October**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**

http://euobserver.com/
 * IIa. European Union news [what items strike your fancy this morning]**

http://www.x-rates.com/calculator/?from=EUR&to=USD&amount=1
 * IIb. Euro/Dollar exchange rate**


 * III. Interesting articles I have discovered since we were last together**

Migrants Die as Burning Boat Capsizes Off Italy http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/04/world/europe/scores-die-in-shipwreck-off-sicily.html?ref=global-home&pagewanted=all

Top-level discussion glum on state of EU http://euobserver.com/political/121654

Election brings more lawmakers of minority, immigrant backgrounds to German parliament http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/election-brings-more-lawmakers-of-minority-immigrant-backgrounds-to-german-parliament/2013/10/05/aa169d7a-2ced-11e3-b141-298f46539716_story.html

German SPD opening door to coalition deal with Merkel http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/07/us-germany-coalition-idUSBRE9960ED20131007

As Germans Push Austerity, Greeks Press Nazi-Era Claims http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/06/world/europe/as-germans-push-austerity-greeks-press-back.html?hpw&pagewanted=all

French far-right pulls ahead in local election http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/07/us-france-farright-idUSBRE99609W20131007


 * IV. Homework**


 * a. Thursday, 10 October**

Arguments For and Against: Turkey's membership in the EU http://www.debatingeurope.eu/focus/infobox-arguments-for-and-against-turkeys-eu-membership/#.Ugl9qG3YHxM //Plus//: What articles grab your attention in the "What European political parties think" section

Russia halts Lithuanian dairy imports before EU summit http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/07/us-russia-lithuania-dairy-idUSBRE99604Y20131007

Ukraine’s Bumpy Road to Europe http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/02/opinion/ukraines-bumpy-road-to-europe.html?ref=global-home

As Ukraine looks west to Europe, Russia's shadow looms http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/01/us-eu-ukraine-russia-insight-idUSBRE99008920131001

Envoys ask Ukraine leader to pardon jailed rival to save EU deal http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/10/04/us-ukraine-tymoshenko-idUSBRE9930U420131004


 * b. Tuesday, 15 October**


 * MID-TERM EXAM**

Study-guide page http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/Mid-term


 * V. In class today**

Enlargement and neighbourhood policy []

Glossary: Accession of New Member States http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/glossary/member_states_accession_en.htm

EU-Georgia treaty highlights enlargement fatigue http://euobserver.com/enlargement/120789

Arguments for and against EU enlargement http://www.debatingeurope.eu/focus/infobox-arguments-for-and-against-eu-enlargement/#.Ugk-hW3YHxO //Plus//: What articles grab your attention in the "What European political parties think" section

Thursday, 3 October


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**

http://euobserver.com/
 * IIa. European Union news [what items strike your fancy this morning]**

http://www.x-rates.com/calculator/?from=EUR&to=USD&amount=1
 * IIb. Euro/Dollar exchange rate**


 * III. Interesting article I have discovered since we were last together**

Iceland dissolves EU accession team http://euobserver.com/enlargement/121419


 * IV. Homework for next week**


 * a. Tuesday, 8 October**

Enlargement and neighbourhood policy []

Glossary: Accession of New Member States http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/glossary/member_states_accession_en.htm

EU-Georgia treaty highlights enlargement fatigue http://euobserver.com/enlargement/120789

Arguments for and against EU enlargement http://www.debatingeurope.eu/focus/infobox-arguments-for-and-against-eu-enlargement/#.Ugk-hW3YHxO //Plus//: What articles grab your attention in the "What European political parties think" section


 * b. Thursday, 10 October**

EU enlargement: the next seven http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-11283616

Croatia Joins European Union http://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/02/world/europe/croatia-joins-european-union.html?hp

Arguments For and Against: Turkey's membership in the EU http://www.debatingeurope.eu/focus/infobox-arguments-for-and-against-turkeys-eu-membership/#.Ugl9qG3YHxM //Plus//: What articles grab your attention in the "What European political parties think" section


 * c. Tuesday, 15 October**


 * MID-TERM EXAM**


 * V. In class today**

How the UK Adopts EU Laws http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8160808.stm

UK and the EU: Better off out or in? (BBC News) http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-20448450

Analysis: UK's Cameron aims to erase EU goal of 'ever closer union' http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/08/05/us-eu-britain-analysis-idUSBRE97404Z20130805

Analysis: French EU-wariness complicates life for Hollande http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/06/19/us-eu-france-analysis-idUSBRE95I06820130619

How to Legitimize European Union: Decentralize http://blogs.reuters.com/hugo-dixon/2013/07/22/how-to-legitimise-eu-decentralise/

Tuesday, 1 October


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**

http://euobserver.com/
 * IIa. European Union news [what items strike your fancy this morning]**

http://www.x-rates.com/calculator/?from=EUR&to=USD&amount=1
 * IIb. Euro/Dollar exchange rate**


 * III. Interesting articles I have discovered since we were last together**


 * On Infographics**

a. Why do infographics work wonders? []

b. Teaching with Infographics (New York Times Learning Network) []

c. Create an infographic for your classroom []


 * European Union Press Releases**

http://europa.eu/newsroom/


 * European Union on Social Media **

How to find EU on social networks http://blogs.ec.europa.eu/waltzing_matilda/how-to-find-eu-on-social-networks/

Blogging Portal European Union http://www.bloggingportal.eu/

Facebook Accounts European Union http://europa.eu/contact/take-part/facebook/index_en.htm

Twitter European Union http://europa.eu/contact/take-part/twitter/index_en.htm

Flickr European Union http://europa.eu/contact/take-part/flickr/index_en.htm

YouTube European Union http://europa.eu/contact/take-part/youtube/index_en.htm

Blogs European Union http://europa.eu/contact/take-part/blogs/index_en.htm


 * European Union on Twitter **

<span style="font-family: &#39;Calibri&#39;,&#39;sans-serif&#39;; font-size: 14.6667px;">Herman Van Rompuy ‏ @euHvR <span style="font-family: &#39;Calibri&#39;,&#39;sans-serif&#39;; font-size: 14.6667px;"> Twitter channel of the President of the European Council. Managed by the media team

José Manuel Barroso ‏ @BarrosoEU President of the @EU_Commission. Let's build Europe together! Profile managed by my media team. Own tweets signed JMB

Martin Schulz ‏ @MartinSchulz President of the European Parliament. Managed by President Martin Schulz' media and press team.

EU Council ‏ @EUCouncil 28 EU governments making decisions together @ European Council and Council of #EU. Learn, participate, share. Latest news

Maroš Šefčovič @MarosSefcovic Vice-President of the European Commission in charge of inter-institutional relations and administration.

Neelie Kroes ‏ @NeelieKroesEU I am Vice President of the @EU_Commission leading @DigitalAgendaEU and #ConnectedContinent plans. I am fighting like hell for a EU you can believe in.

Antonio Tajani ‏ @AntonioTajaniEU Vice President of the European Commission responsible for Industry and Entrepreneurship

László Andor ‏ @LaszloAndorEU EU Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion. This account is being run by my private office and press team.

Michel Barnier @MBarnierEU Commissaire européen au Marché intérieur et Services. Ce compte est tenu par mon équipe et moi-même.

Kristalina Georgieva @KGeorgievaEU EU Commissioner for International Cooperation, Humanitarian Aid & Crisis Response

Tony Lockett ‏ @TonyLbxl Working on communication for @EU_Regional. 2013 EU Fellow at @UW. Interested in #opengov #gov20 .... Views expressed here are mine.


 * IV. Homework for Thursday, 3 October**

How the UK Adopts EU Laws http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8160808.stm

UK and the EU: Better off out or in? (BBC News) http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-20448450

Analysis: UK's Cameron aims to erase EU goal of 'ever closer union' http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/08/05/us-eu-britain-analysis-idUSBRE97404Z20130805

Analysis: French EU-wariness complicates life for Hollande http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/06/19/us-eu-france-analysis-idUSBRE95I06820130619

How to Legitimize European Union: Decentralize http://blogs.reuters.com/hugo-dixon/2013/07/22/how-to-legitimise-eu-decentralise/


 * V. In class today**

Storm in a Dipping Bowl over Europe's Olive Oil Rule http://rendezvous.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/05/20/storm-in-a-dipping-bowl-over-europes-olive-oil-rule/?hpw

Rise of British anti-EU party threatens Prime Minister's re-election http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/09/15/us-britain-politics-cameron-idUSBRE98E0BJ20130915

Britain's Brussels Syndrome http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/23/opinion/cohen-britains-brussels-syndrome.html?ref=global-home&_r=0

Crisis for Europe as trust hits record low http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/apr/24/trust-eu-falls-record-low

European Union's Unending Quandary http://blogs.reuters.com/john-lloyd/2013/05/21/the-european-unions-unending-quandary/

Thursday, 26 September


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**

http://euobserver.com/
 * IIa. European Union news [what items strike your fancy this morning]**

Check out this one on the female EU diplomat who slugged an Israeli soldier http://euobserver.com/foreign/121529

http://www.x-rates.com/calculator/?from=EUR&to=USD&amount=1
 * IIb. Euro/Dollar exchange rate**


 * III. Interesting articles I have discovered since we were last together**

a. My thanks for this one, based on a Tweet by our very own Annie Yu. German elections explained http://visual.ly/angela-merkel-haus-german-elections-explained

b. Germany's Short and Sweet Electoral Campaign http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/ruth-marcus-germanys-throwback-campaign/2013/09/24/14043b4e-2540-11e3-ad0d-b7c8d2a594b9_story.html

c. Beginning talks on coalition government for Germany http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/09/25/us-germany-coalition-idUSBRE98O0RA20130925

d. New era as Brussels tightens its grip on national budgets http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/09/26/us-eurozone-governance-idUSBRE98P0BS20130926

http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/Council+of+EU
 * IV. Council of the European Union**

I have reworked [mostly consolidated] the wiki page to make it easier to understand. [Thank you, Karla, for the nudge!]


 * V. In class today: European Parliament**

Let's work through the material on this wiki page: http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/EU+Parliament


 * VI. Homework for next week: Euroscepticism**


 * a. Tuesday, 1 October**

Storm in a Dipping Bowl over Europe's Olive Oil Rule http://rendezvous.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/05/20/storm-in-a-dipping-bowl-over-europes-olive-oil-rule/?hpw

Rise of British anti-EU party threatens Prime Minister's re-election http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/09/15/us-britain-politics-cameron-idUSBRE98E0BJ20130915

Britain's Brussels Syndrome http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/23/opinion/cohen-britains-brussels-syndrome.html?ref=global-home&_r=0

Crisis for Europe as trust hits record low http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/apr/24/trust-eu-falls-record-low

European Union's Unending Quandary http://blogs.reuters.com/john-lloyd/2013/05/21/the-european-unions-unending-quandary/


 * b. Thursday, 3 October**

How the UK Adopts EU Laws http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8160808.stm

UK and the EU: Better off out or in? (BBC News) http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-20448450

Analysis: UK's Cameron aims to erase EU goal of 'ever closer union' http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/08/05/us-eu-britain-analysis-idUSBRE97404Z20130805

Analysis: French EU-wariness complicates life for Hollande http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/06/19/us-eu-france-analysis-idUSBRE95I06820130619

How to Legitimize European Union: Decentralize http://blogs.reuters.com/hugo-dixon/2013/07/22/how-to-legitimise-eu-decentralise/


 * Tuesday, 24 September**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**

http://euobserver.com/
 * IIa. European Union news [what items strike your fancy this morning]**

[I worked through this website completely over the weekend and will blend into our course content various of the great articles I discovered in my search.]

http://www.x-rates.com/calculator/?from=EUR&to=USD&amount=1
 * IIb. Euro/Dollar exchange rate**


 * III. Interesting articles I have discovered since we were last together**

a. As a result of Sunday's election:

Merkel the Great http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/24/opinion/global/cohen-merkel-the-great.html?hp

The making of Angela Merkel, a German enigma http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-24159595

Why did Germans vote for Merkel, again? http://euobserver.com/political/121535

Merkel romps to victory but faces tough coalition choices (Reuters) http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/09/22/us-germany-election-idUSBRE98K06220130922

Re-election in hand, Merkel moves to form new German government http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/24/world/europe/merkel-re-elected-in-show-of-strong-support-for-party.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0

b. Prior to Sunday's election:

German elections: Little change for EU [good on German political parties] http://euobserver.com/political/121473

As German Vote Nears, No Guarantees for Merkel’s Coalition http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/20/world/europe/race-tightens-ahead-of-german-vote.html?hp&_r=0

Chancellor Merkel's Double Vision http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/20/opinion/global/chancellor-merkels-double-vision.html?ref=global-home


 * IV. Thoughts about the mid-term exam**


 * V. Homework for Thursday, 26 September**

Read through the material I have put together on this separate wiki page: http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/EU+Parliament
 * European Parliament**


 * VI. In class today**:


 * Council of the European Union [Consilium, Council, Council of Ministers (formerly)]**

European Council: seems to me to be similar to a board of directors of a corporation. European Commission: similar to the CEO or President European Parliament: similar to the lower house of the legislature
 * Council of the European Union**: similar to the upper house of the legislature

Let's turn to the material I've put on a separate wiki page: http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/Council+of+EU


 * Thursday, 19 September**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**

http://euobserver.com/
 * II. European Union news [what items strike your fancy this morning]**


 * III. Interesting articles I have discovered since we were last together**

Glossary in general http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/glossary/

Glossary: Accession of New Member States http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/glossary/member_states_accession_en.htm

British bases on Cyprus http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akrotiri_and_Dhekelia

EU's Van Rompuy warns Britain over European exit | Reuters http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/09/18/us-britain-europe-rompuy-idUSBRE98H0ZP20130918

Crisis in Greece [check out picture of Barroso] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-24124189

Barroso's succession battle has already begun http://www.presseurop.eu/en/content/article/4101191-barroso-s-succession-battle-has-already-begun

Is Angela Merkel too boring for Germany? http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/17/opinion/is-angela-merkel-too-boring-for-germany.html?hp

Merkel balances roles http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/15/world/europe/merkel-balances-roles-in-run-for-chancellor.html?ref=global-home&pagewanted=all

Angela Merkel: Chancellor chic? http://www.bbc.com/culture/story/20130918-angela-merkel-chancellor-chic


 * IV. Homework for Tuesday, 24 September [I will firm this up later today or tomorrow]**

//Some background information://


 * Council of the European Union**

European Council: seems to me to be similar to a board of directors of a corporation. European Commission: similar to the CEO or President European Parliament: similar to the lower house of the legislature
 * Council of the European Union**: similar to the upper house of the legislature


 * Council of the European Union** represents the governments of the individual member countries. The Presidency of the Council is shared by the member states on a rotating basis.

The Council of the EU - where national ministers discuss EU legislation - doesn't have a permanent, single-person president. Its work is led by the country holding the Council presidency, which rotates every 6 months. For example, representatives from the presidency country chair its meetings.

Also informally known as the EU Council, this is where national ministers from each EU country meet to adopt laws and coordinate policies.

The Council of the European Union can be considered the upper house of the legislature.


 * Lithuania** chairs it from 1 July-31 December

//Now, for homework, please work through ALL of the following//:

Council of the European Union http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Council_of_the_European_Union

Council of the European Union (Consilium) main website [play around with the format] http://www.consilium.europa.eu/homepage?lang=en

Consilium: Council Configurations http://www.consilium.europa.eu/council/council-configurations?lang=en http://www.consilium.europa.eu/policies/council-configurations?lang=en

Check out what's available on the TV newsroom It seems like they combine both the European Council and the Council of the European Union. http://tvnewsroom.consilium.europa.eu/

Why called the Consilium http://www.shwebizonline.com/c/eucall/profiles/59-council-of-the-european-union.htm?Itemid=58


 * V. In class today: European Commission**


 * European Commission**

European Council: seems to me to be similar to a board of directors of a corporation. Council of the European Union: similar to the upper house of the legislature European Parliament: similar to the lower house of the legislature
 * European Commission**: similar to the CEO or President

President of the European Commission: **José Manuel Barroso** Term: January 2010 - December 2014 Appointed by: national leaders (heads of state or government of EU countries), with the approval of the European Parliament.

How many Commissioners are there? The College counts 28 Commissioners. They are each in charge of particular policy areas and meet collectively as the College of Commissioners.

Who are the commissioners? http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/members/index_en.htm

Biographical sketch of President Barroso [what are the key steps in his career] http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/president/about/cv/index_en.htm

State of the Union video [your reactions] http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/president/index_en.htm

Here is the written text of the State of the Union speech http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_SPEECH-13-684_en.htm

Role of the President of the European Commission http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/president/about/role/index_en.htm

"Relationship to European Council Presidency" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/President_of_the_European_Commission

The EU at the G8/G20 summit in Russia [note how it emphasizes "joint" comments] http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/president/g20/index_en.htm


 * Tuesday, 17 September**


 * Happy Constitution Day!**

http://thelearningprofessor.wikispaces.com/POLI+471+Syllabus
 * Syllabus**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**


 * II. Homework for Thursday, 19 September**

//Some background information://


 * European Commission**

European Council: seems to me to be similar to a board of directors of a corporation. Council of the European Union: similar to the upper house of the legislature European Parliament: similar to the lower house of the legislature
 * European Commission**: similar to the CEO or President

President of the European Commission: **José Manuel Barroso** Term: January 2010 - December 2014 Appointed by: national leaders (heads of state or government of EU countries), with the approval of the European Parliament.

//Now, for homework, please work through ALL of the following//:

Read: biographical sketch of President Barroso http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/president/about/cv/index_en.htm

Watch: State of the Union video http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/president/index_en.htm

Read: Role of the President of the European Commission http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/president/about/role/index_en.htm

Read: section entitled "Relationship to European Council Presidency" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/President_of_the_European_Commission

Read: The EU at the G8/G20 summit in Russia http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/president/g20/index_en.htm


 * III. In class today**

European Union news: what strikes your interest? http://euobserver.com/

Main institutions of the European Union:

European Commission: similar to the CEO or President of a corporation Council of the European Union: similar to the upper house of the legislature European Parliament: similar to the lower house of the legislature
 * European Council**: seems to me to be similar to a board of directors of a corporation.

http://www.european-council.europa.eu/the-institution?lang=en
 * European Council: Main website**


 * European Council**

//Some background information//:

The EU's broad priorities are set by the **European Council**, which brings together national and EU-level leaders.

The **European Council** sets the EU's overall political direction – but has no powers to pass laws. Led by its President – currently Herman Van Rompuy – and comprising national heads of state or government and the President of the Commission, it meets for a few days at a time at least every 6 months.

President of the European Council: **Herman Van Rompuy** Term: June 2012 - November 2014 Appointed by: national leaders (heads of state or government of EU countries).

//Now, for homework, please work through ALL of the following//:

a. Herman van Rompuy http://blogs.wsj.com/brussels/2013/05/10/van-rompuy-follow-my-lead/

b. EU President Herman van Rompuy and his love of haiku http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8577506.stm

c. Herman van Rompuy to leave politics after 2014 http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/03/17/us-vanrompuy-politics-idUSBRE92G08Y20130317

d. European Council: the President's role http://www.european-council.europa.eu/the-president/the-presidents-role?lang=en

e. European Council: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Council

Read the introductory paragraph. Then read the material under the following headings: "Powers and Functions" "Composition" "President" "Members" [scan the list; note what position each person holds in his/her country]


 * Thursday, 12 September**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**

http://euobserver.com/
 * II. European Union news**


 * III. In class today--from homework assignment**

a. What Happened to Europe (New York Times) [note to myself: **do a close reading of this article**] http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/26/opinion/global/what-happened-to-europe.html?hpw

b. The Ghosts of Europe Past (New York Times) http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/10/opinion/the-ghosts-of-europe-past.html?hpw

c. History by decade (read just the paragraphs on each decade) http://europa.eu/about-eu/eu-history/index_en.htm

d. The Founding Fathers (read just the paragraphs on each founder) http://europa.eu/about-eu/eu-history/founding-fathers/index_en.htm#box_1

e. 4 Key Founding Fathers (read the PDF entries for these 4 founding fathers):

Jean Monnet http://europa.eu/about-eu/eu-history/founding-fathers/pdf/jean_monnet_en.pdf Robert Schuman http://europa.eu/about-eu/eu-history/founding-fathers/pdf/robert_schuman_en.pdf Konrad Adenauer http://europa.eu/about-eu/eu-history/founding-fathers/pdf/konrad_adenauer_en.pdf Winston Churchill http://europa.eu/about-eu/eu-history/founding-fathers/pdf/winston_churchill_en.pdf


 * IV. Homework for Tuesday, 17 September** [we will start our look at the main institutions of the EU]


 * European Council**

//Some background information//:

The EU's broad priorities are set by the **European Council**, which brings together national and EU-level leaders.

The **European Council** sets the EU's overall political direction – but has no powers to pass laws. Led by its President – currently Herman Van Rompuy – and comprising national heads of state or government and the President of the Commission, it meets for a few days at a time at least every 6 months.

President of the European Council: **Herman Van Rompuy** Term: June 2012 - November 2014 Appointed by: national leaders (heads of state or government of EU countries).

//Now, for homework, please work through ALL of the following//:

a. Herman van Rompuy http://blogs.wsj.com/brussels/2013/05/10/van-rompuy-follow-my-lead/

b. EU President Herman van Rompuy and his love of haiku http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8577506.stm

c. Herman van Rompuy to leave politics after 2014 http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/03/17/us-vanrompuy-politics-idUSBRE92G08Y20130317

d. European Council: the President's role http://www.european-council.europa.eu/the-president/the-presidents-role?lang=en

e. European Council: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Council

Read the introductory paragraph. Then read the material under the following headings: "Powers and Functions" "Composition" "President" "Members" [scan the list; note what position each person holds in his/her country]


 * V. Upcoming schedule.**

Here is how I hope to proceed for our remaining class sessions during the semester. Please give me your thoughts.

EU institutions: European Council [for Tuesday] Council of the European Union European Commission European Parliament EU Enlargement [2 sessions] Euroscepticism [2 sessions] Impact of EU within a given country


 * Mid-term exam on the above material and that which we have covered already.**

EU Topics:

Justice and Home Affairs Information technology Agriculture and fisheries Foreign and Security Policy [2 sessions] Customs Citizenship Single market/trade Human Rights Economics and monetary affairs/Eurozone [2 sessions] EU citizenship Transport EU Law


 * Final exam on the material since the mid-term.**


 * Term paper** (10 pages) and in-class presentation.
 * Class participation**.


 * Tuesday, 10 September**


 * I. Prayer/Attendance**

Syllabus is still in progress.


 * IIa. In class today: from homework assignment**

Admiral James Stavridis: What I Read [we will go over this closely] []

Historical background of the European Union [we will do more of this in our Thursday session]

a. Why the European Union? []

b. Ten historic steps []

Key dates in the history of European integration []


 * IIb. In class today: new material** [we may leave some of this for Thursday's class session]


 * a. Sources on the European Union:**

BBC Democracy Live: Europe [keep up with this daily] http://www.bbc.co.uk/democracylive/europe/

European Union Newsroom--home page http://europa.eu/newsroom/index_en.htm

European Newsroom--news releases http://europa.eu/newsroom/press-releases/index_en.htm

Presseurop (European Union): the best of the European press highlights http://www.presseurop.eu/en/category/country/europe/european-union

EUobserver Headline News <span style="font-family: &#39;Calibri&#39;,&#39;sans-serif&#39;; font-size: 14.6667px;">[]


 * b. Basic Information on the European Union**

Let's start by going to the **main website for the European Union.** europa.eu

Notice that you have to choose a language.

So choose English for starters. http://europa.eu/index_en.htm

Now, let's begin to get our bearings by looking at what is contained on this European Union website http://europa.eu/about-eu/index_en.htm

a. Countries (Member States) http://europa.eu/about-eu/countries/index_en.htm

Map of the European Union members http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/europe_map.htm

b. European Union Symbols http://europa.eu/about-eu/basic-information/symbols/index_en.htm

~Flag http://europa.eu/about-eu/basic-information/symbols/flag/index_en.htm

~Anthem http://europa.eu/about-eu/basic-information/symbols/anthem/index_en.htm Same tune as Christian hymn: "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh089.sht

~Europe Day: 9 May (1950) http://europa.eu/about-eu/basic-information/symbols/europe-day/index_en.htm

c. Money and the EU [we will devote a week later in the semester to this topic] http://europa.eu/about-eu/basic-information/money/index_en.htm

The Euro (which countries use it) http://europa.eu/about-eu/basic-information/money/euro/index_en.htm

d. EU by topic [most of our semester will concentrate on major topics from this list] http://europa.eu/pol/index_en.htm


 * III. Homework for Thursday, 12 September**


 * The following readings will conclude our material on the History of the European Union.**

a. What Happened to Europe (New York Times) http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/26/opinion/global/what-happened-to-europe.html?hpw

b. The Ghosts of Europe Past (New York Times) http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/10/opinion/the-ghosts-of-europe-past.html?hpw

c. History by decade (read just the paragraphs on each decade) http://europa.eu/about-eu/eu-history/index_en.htm

d. The Founding Fathers (read just the paragraphs on each founder) http://europa.eu/about-eu/eu-history/founding-fathers/index_en.htm#box_1

e. 4 Key Founding Fathers (read the PDF entries for these 4 founding fathers):

Jean Monnet http://europa.eu/about-eu/eu-history/founding-fathers/pdf/jean_monnet_en.pdf

Robert Schuman http://europa.eu/about-eu/eu-history/founding-fathers/pdf/robert_schuman_en.pdf

Konrad Adenauer http://europa.eu/about-eu/eu-history/founding-fathers/pdf/konrad_adenauer_en.pdf

Winston Churchill http://europa.eu/about-eu/eu-history/founding-fathers/pdf/winston_churchill_en.pdf


 * Thursday, 5 September**


 * Homework for Tuesday, 10 September**

Admiral James Stavridis: What I Read []

The EU at a glance: Europe in 12 lessons

1. Why the European Union? []

2. Ten historic steps []

Key dates in the history of European integration []

3. Enlargement and neighbourhood policy []

4. How does the EU work? []

How the EU works: a video guide (BBC News) [Matthew Price 29 July 2013] []