We study global and European processes, focusing on how conflicts, cooperation, and institutions are formed, evolve, and influence societal development. Our research covers EU decision-making, international organizations, global norms, migration, and developments in the Middle East and Africa.
We examine global and European processes with an emphasis on how conflicts, cooperation, and institutions are shaped, transformed, and affect societal change. The research encompasses both the EU’s internal work and decision-making processes, as well as the Union’s relations with the wider world, the emergence and diffusion of global norms, and the role of international organizations in governance and policy development. Key themes also include the UN Sustainable Development Goals and political and societal developments in the Middle East and Africa. An important part of the research addresses migration, diaspora, and transnational ties.
European Union and decision-making
Within EU research, we analyze how political decisions emerge in the many working groups where the Union’s policies are negotiated and implemented. Studies include, for example:
- EU foreign and security policy
- The development of environmental and climate policy, such as regulations on energy efficiency in the building sector
- How the case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union influences national courts and contributes to legal development in the Member States
We also study EU–Africa relations, focusing on partnerships, development, and shifting power dynamics.
Global perspectives and international organizations
This research explores how global norms are created, spread, and contested, as well as the role international organizations play in these processes. Particular attention is given to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and how they are interpreted and applied across political and institutional contexts.
Migration, diaspora, and transnational relations
Studies of the Middle East and Africa address issues of migration, diaspora, and transnational relations, along with factors shaping development and institutional change. The analyses cover political, social, and economic dimensions.
New and emerging research areas
A growing field of research concerns the visual dimension of diplomacy. We examine how states use images, symbols, and aesthetic expressions to communicate with one another and with their citizens, and how this shapes international relations.
Previous work and contributions to education
The division’s previous work also includes a project that resulted in a university textbook in international politics, with a particular focus on international political economy.
