Includes bibliographical references and index.

"This is a systematically updated and entirely redesigned new edition of the leading text on the European Union. The seventh edition is packed with new features, accompanied by an all-new companion website and includes new chapters on member state relations and interest representation."-- Provided by publisher.

Machine generated contents note: PART 1: THE HISTORICAL EVOLUTION -- The Transformation of Western Europe -- The Creation of the European Community -- From Community to Enlarged Union -- PART 2: THE EVOLVING TREATY FRAMEWORK -- From Rome to Nice -- The Lisbon Treaty -- Treaties and the Integration Process -- PART 3: THE INSTITUTIONS AND POLITICAL ACTORS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION -- The Commission -- The Council of Ministers -- The European Council -- The European Parliament -- European Union Law and the Courts -- Other Institutions -- The Member States -- Interest Representation -- PART 4: POLICIES AND POLICY PROCESSES OF THE EUROPEAN UNION -- The Policy Portfolio -- Policy Processes -- Internal Policies -- External Policies -- The Budget -- PART 5: STEPPING BACK AND LOOKING FORWARD -- Conceptualising and Theorising -- Conclusion: Present Realities and Future Prospects -- Chronology -- Guide to Further Reading -- Bibliography -- Index.