Course description

Is the world deglobalising? Is the multilateral system that has underpinned global economic interdependence dead? How are economic policies in the different regional blocs (US, China, the EU) evolving in an era of intense geopolitical rivalry? Are economic nationalism and industrial policy the new protectionism? How should economic policies respond to rising global fragmentation and increased inequality?

This elective course will focus on the policy issues and dilemmas dominating international economic debates and policymaking in a world where economic interdependence goes hand in hand with economic fragmentation. The course will provide participants with:

• A critical look on the current patterns of globalisation and deglobalisation as well as on the characteristics of the multilateral system for trade and investment;
• An analysis of US economic policy in the global system of international economic interdependence in light of preferences and policies of the new US administration;
• An examination of China’s integration into the world economy as well as economic policy challenges for middle powers in a fragmenting geo-economic environment;
• A broad understanding of the structure, content, and policy debates around the new EU economic governance architecture and policy dilemmas;
• An overview of the trends across different dimensions of economic fragmentation and socio-economic inequality in Europe and the world.

This course is also part of the curriculum of the EUI Global Executive Master, in the Economy and Finance (ECOF) specialisation track.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this module, participants will be able to:

• Demonstrate in-depth empirical and policy-relevant understanding of the main international political economy issues facing policymakers in a world of increased economic interdependence and fragmentation.
• Develop analytical skills to understand the use of fiscal, monetary, trade, industrial and innovation policies in the new geo-economic setting.
• Use economic policy principles and tools to critically evaluate new policy directions by the main global economic actors.
• Develop skills to be able to write about, discuss, and communicate global political economy issues for a range of target audiences.

Information for applicants

The course is designed for an online audience, including weekly live online sessions, pre-readings, and assignments with feedback. As a participant you can expect a hands-on approach, with plenty of space dedicated to practical exercises, live interaction, and engagement with real-world examples.

The training will have live online sessions one afternoon per week between 7 October and 14 November 2026. You may consult the Programme Timetable for details on the timing and content of each online session.

Participants will be enrolled in the EUI’s Virtual Learning Environment. All live online sessions will be recorded and available for viewing on this platform.

Certification

Participants who complete all the necessary course assignments will receive a Certificate of Completion with ECTS credits (3) included. The credits obtained by completing this course can be used towards the EUI Global Executive Master. Participants who do not complete the assignments but have regularly attended the course will receive a Certificate of Attendance.

Participants can expect to learn from policy practitioners, bringing in both practical and academic expertise. The full list of instructors will be announced in due course.