Now in its third edition, The European Union: How Does it Work? demystifies the European Union's structures and operation, providing a concise, engaging, and accessible introduction ideal for students with no background in the subject. Bringing together an exceptional collection of work--by practitioners who have worked or currently work in the EU's institutions and by leading scholars and academics--this volume cuts through the complexity to explain how the EU really works and why it matters. Innovative pedagogical tools--including "How it Really Works" and "Compared to What" boxes--help guide students through the material. A Companion Website offers multiple-choice questions, a timeline of key events, relevant links, and an interactive map for students. It also provides seminar questions and activities and PowerPoint-based presentations for instructors. New to this Edition: * Revised and updated throughout in light of the ratification of the Lisbon Treaty and the effects of the financial crisis on the Eurozone * New coeditor Richard Corbett, former Member of the European Parliament, has ensured that the anthology continues to include a practitioner's perspective * Three new chapters: 6. How Policies are Made, 7. Democracy, and 9. The EU as a Security Actor