"Thoroughly revised and updated to include coverage of the huge changes that have taken place in the EU since 2007 ; Incorporates detail about the Lisbon treaty and the changes that have been implemented as a result ; Covers the history of the Union since 1946, looking at the various institutions and what they do ; Examines the role of the Union on the world stage, in its role as a peace-keeper and in the rise of environmental politics ; Considers the future of the Union and the challenges and choices that may lie ahead in the 21st century."

Edition statement from cover and flap. Previous edition: 2007.

What the EU is for -- How the EU was made -- How the EU is governed -- Single market, single currency -- Agriculture, regions, budget: conflicts over who gets what -- Social policy, environmental policy -- "An area of freedom, security, and justice" -- A great civilian power ... and more, or less? -- The EU and the rest of Europe -- The EU in the world -- Much accomplished ... but what next?.