The economics of European integration. Theory, practice, policy

Through four previous editions The Economics of European Integration by Willem Molle has established itself as a preferred textbook for students of the economics of the EU as well as a reliable reference work for those with a professional interest in the European Union.

Carefully revised, this fifth edition takes into account changes in course requirements, new statistical information, and recent policy developments. It includes new material on:

– the ongoing integration of the New Member States and the new forms of association with accession countries in Central and Eastern Europe;

– the implementation of the Monetary Union and the performance of the euro;

– the EU experience as a guide for the economic integration of other regions and for the improvement of world economic governance.

Written in a clear style and combining original insights with authoritative analysis, this new edition will further enhance the book's reputation for providing the ideal introduction to the economics of the European Union.

Contents: Part 1 General issues: Introduction; Dynamics of the integration process; Short history; Institutions. Part 2 Common Market: Goods; Services; Labour; Capital. Part 3 Sectors of activity: Agriculture; Manufacturing; Energy; Services; Transport. Part 4 Conditions for balanced growth: Allocation, internal market and competitiveness policies; Stabilisation: economic and monetary union; Redistribution: cohesion policies; External relations. Part 5 Conclusion and Lessons: Evaluation; What lessons for regional integration schemes?; What lessons for the design of global integration?; Bibliography; Index.

Willem Molle is Professor at the Erasmus School of Economics, Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands.