This accessible, user-friendly guide provides students with all the key information and analysis on the European Union and its policies.It covers the main areas, such as the single market and budgeting, and also explores recent developments involving the introduction of the Economic and Monetary Union and the Treaty of Nice.With the accession of ten new member States, the EU is experiencing dramatic changes and this is a comprehensive and thematic guide to all the recent developments. Companion to the European Union is an essential purchase for all students getting to grips with the complexities of the EU and is also an excellent resource for lecturers and professionals.