Offers a thematically organized introduction to the governance and politics of Europe. This book covers the institutions and issues that matter, and uses 9 representative countries as case studies throughout.

An accessible, up-to-date guide, it covers the institutions and issues that matter, and uses 9 representative countries as case studies throughout.

Introduction
Europe: A Continent in the Making
The End of the Nation State? Federalism, Devolution and the European Union
From Government to Governance: Running the State, Making Policy, and Policing the Constitution
Governments and Parliaments: A Long Way from Equality
Parties: How the Past Effects the Present, and An Uncertain Future
Elections, Voting and Referendums: Systems, Turnout, Preferences and Unpredictability
The Media: Player and Recorder
Pressure Politics: Civil Society, Organised Interests and New Social Movements
Politics over Economics: Enduring Differences Between Left and Right
Not Wanted but Needed: Migrants and Minorities
Making the World a Better Place? Europe's International Politics.