Comparative Constitutional Law [FS 2021]

In this course, students analyse constitutional matters such as government systems, judicial review, checks and balance arrangements, and human rights protection in a comparative perspective.

In the first week, the course starts with an introduction on the purpose of Comparative Constitutional Law as we discuss various methodological approaches to the field of Comparative Constitutional Law as well as other topics ranging from different types of constitutions to the migration of constitutional ideas. The end of the first week and the beginning of the second week deal with key constitutional concepts. We examine processes of constitution-making and how constitutions can be amended and effectively enforced.  Subsequently, we focus on fundamental constitutional values. The thematic sessions may include discussions on central issues such as individual freedom rights, equality, non-discrimination and socio-economic rights. Moreover, we examine how these values are protected and promoted in different constitutional systems. In the last week, we turn to topics such as federalism and decentralisation and familiarise ourselves with different ways to organise public participation, to protect common interests and to set up a system of horizontal and vertical power-sharing. In doing so, we also try to better understand how power-sharing arrangements and multilevel governance can be used for conflict resolution. 

Beginning of the course: 

Monday 22.02.2021, 09h15, BQC 13, room 3.805