In this fifth edition of the leading text in its field, Neill Nugent provides comprehensive coverage and analysis of the developments occuring in the European Union. As in earlier editions, this volume presents an introduction to the origins of the Union and provides detailed analysis of the powers involved, the influence and functioning of the EU s principal institutions and political actors, as well as perspectives on major policy interests and processes. Thoroughly revised and updated, the book contains extensive new material on such matters as the Treaty of Nice, Economic and Monetary Union, the Lisbon Strategy, security and defense policy, and EU enlargement. From reviews of previous editions: "In addition to being a core teaching text on the EU, the book provides a useful reference work for both academics and practitioners in the field." European Access "Neill Nugent has once again supplied us with a definitive textbook on the institutions and politics of the European Union.. It is a masterful effort at explaining the inexplicable and at making the opaque transparent."