This course looks into the academic debate on the concepts of euroscepticism and democratic backsliding. Empirically, an emphasis will be laid on EU enlargement and the accession processes in the past and presence. In addition, EU policies to mitigate these developments will be analysed. We will discuss theoretical texts on the issue in the first weeks and then engage in a detailed analysis of policies and developments in certain countries. There will be sufficient room for student presentations and more detailed case studies of their own choice. This is a blended learning event. Individual sessions can take place in presence. The arrangement (alternating models in groups, single session for all, etc.) will be announced at the beginning of the course. This is a blended learning event. Individual meetings can take place in person. The design (changing models in groups, individual sessions for everyone, etc.) will be announced at the beginning of the course. --> synchron, presence/blended close