Introduction by Professor Ulf Bernitz
The European Union has achieved extraordinary results in regards to its economic and legal integration. Europe has become the arena of concerted social and economic action of unprecedented proportions and dynamics. This development is all the more remarkable in the light of clashes and conflicts, and at times total disintegration of whole countries and regions, experienced by other areas of the world. In this process of European consolidation, law has played, and will continue to play, a vital role.

I feel that there is a great and urgent need for advanced studies in European Law, especially when considering certain regrettable tendencies to underestimate the importance of the emerging body of law and the fundamental changes brought about in the legal orders of the Member States (for example, many law faculties in Europe still lack compulsory courses in European Law). It is my opinion that the rapid development of European Law must be accompanied by equal development in the understanding of the general principles, the methodology and the application of European Law in practical situations. The Programme seeks to provide all these elements.

I am very pleased that the Faculty of Law at Stockholm University offers the possibility of advanced studies in this exciting field. We welcome students from different European and non-European countries, hoping that this truly international group with its rich background and diverse legal traditions will create an excellent environment in which new arguments and fresh solutions will emerge.

Professor Ulf Bernitz
Director of the Master Programme in European Law