Class objective(s) (learning outcomes)

Specific topics of economic policy and the problems of policy co-ordination in the EU are discussed (stability and growth pact, Lissabon strategy, employment policy etc.) The institutional set up for economic policy, the framework for decision processes in the EU, the successes and failures of the common policy with regard to the basic goals are critically reviewed.

Teaching and learning method(s)

Elaboration of seminar papers and their oral presentation by students; general discussion in the seminar group

Criteria for successful completion

submission of a seminar paper (12-15 pages) and its positive assessment
pow erpoint presentation of seminar paper
participation in general discussion

Availability of instructor(s) for contact by students

e-mail: mailto:Georg.Busch@ec.europa.eu

Miscellaneous

siehe Literaturhinweise unter:
http://ec.europa.eu/economy_finance/publications_en.htm
und
http://www.oecd.org/department/0,2688,en_2649_33733_1_1_1_1_1,00.html

Introduction to the course and the issues to be discussed. Allocation of topics for the seminar papers and presentations to the seminar participants.
EU economic developments in a longer perspective
The short-term outlook
Policy problems and challenges
The EU institutional policy framework
Monetary policy (ECB and its role; monetary policy strategy and instruments)
Budgetary policy (goals and tasks; the Stability and Grow the Pact)
EU Labour markets; wage formation; social policy
Structural adjustment for higher growth (the "Lisbon Strategy")