Belgian and comparative policy issues [EPOLB364]

Learning outcomes

At the end of this course, students will be able to identify, analyse and explain the transformations of Belgian and comparative political life in contemporary European democracies, including 1. Changes in Voting Behaviour ; 2. Changes in party systems ; 3. Dynamics of regional and federal government formation; 4. Consequences of institutional changes on decision making ; 5. Transformations and evolutions of democratic governance.

Objectives

This course aims to provide students with the fundamental analytical tools to enable them to analyse the major issues of political life in Belgium and in a comprehensive manner. The first part of the course introduces students to the theories, concepts and indicators necessary to understand the transformations of contemporary politics. In the second part of the course, students apply these concepts and theories to case studies at local, regional, national and/or European level. The themes are decided at the beginning of the academic year and special attention is given to data collection and analysis - in coordination and support of the teaching staff.

Content

Part 1 : Theories, concepts and analytical tools For the academic year 2022-2023, the theme is 'Transformation of party systems in Europe (1990-2020)'. Theories address the reasons for voter misalignment and the mutations of party systems in Western democracies; the concepts and tools used cover the concepts of electoral volatility, fragmentation of the party system, effective number of parties and the nationalisation of elections. Part 2: Case study - analysis of quantitative and qualitative data Application of analytical tools on electoral data; Production of results; Intermediate oral presentation; Analysis and interpretation using interviews with political actors, press documents and scientific articles; Production of final work.