A major new thematically-organised introduction to the governance and politics of Europe. This text provides an accessible, up-to-date guide to both the institutions and the issues that matter in a continent where the boundaries between East and West, and between domestic and EU affairs are breaking down. Covering, but not confining itself to, a common core of countries (Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, UK), it is a concise yet comprehensive introduction to one of the world's most important and fascinating regions.