Complementary to the class “Comparative Politics: Populism, Democracy and Political Representation” we will leave political parties “behind” and focus on heads of state or government as political actors and the ultimate decision makers in the European Union (?). We will get to know the European Council as one of the key institutions of the EU and place it in the institutional architecture. Further, we will approach politics in this special institution from theoretical and empirical paths, leading us to a European Council simulation game at the end of the year. Please note that participation in the simulation game is important for the success of the class!