DEMOGRAPHY,SOCIETY AND POLICY IN EUROPE AND BEYOND

The course aims to provide students with a solid theoretical and methodological foundation in demography and an in-depth understanding of population-related public policies. It seeks to develop students’ ability to analyse the interplay between demographic change and policy processes, adopting a cross-national comparative perspective and considering both European and broader international contexts. Students will learn to interpret demographic evidence, critically assess the societal and policy implications of population dynamics, and evaluate policy responses to demographic challenges.

A basic understanding of statistical concepts is recommended. No prior knowledge of demography is required.

Knowledge and Understanding Upon successful completion of the course, students will have acquired a solid understanding of the key concepts, theories, and methods of demography. They will understand major demographic trends and their socioeconomic, political, and policy implications, as well as the relationships between population dynamics, institutions, and public policy in Europe and beyond. Applying Knowledge and Understanding Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to apply demographic concepts and methods to the analysis of population change from a cross-national comparative perspective. They will be able to identify and analyse key demographic and policy challenges, critically assess possible responses using empirical evidence, and communicate their findings through clear, structured, and well-supported written arguments. Making Judgements Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to independently collect, select, and critically evaluate demographic data and research materials from reliable sources, including statistical databases, research articles, and policy reports. They will be able to interpret demographic evidence, assess competing explanations of population change, and formulate evidence-based judgements on demographic challenges and policy responses across different national and regional contexts. Communication Skills Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to use demographic terminology accurately and communicate demographic evidence and arguments clearly and rigorously, both orally and in writing. Through presentations, discussions, debates, and group activities, they will develop the ability to communicate complex demographic issues effectively to academic and non-specialist audiences. Learning Skills Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to independently access, interpret, and critically engage with scientific literature and other specialist materials in demography and population policy. They will have developed the analytical and methodological foundations needed for further advanced study and research, including potential doctoral-level work, as well as for continued professional development in demography and related policy fields.

The course examines demographic change in Europe and beyond, combining a long-term perspective on demographic transition with the analysis of recent population trends. It explores major demographic processes, including fertility and family change, mortality and population ageing, migration, depopulation, and changes in population size, composition, and spatial distribution. Demographic analysis is integrated with the study of societal transformations and policy developments to identify the drivers of population change and examine how demographic dynamics shape societies and influence policymaking. The course also investigates how public policies, institutions, and governance arrangements affect demographic outcomes. The analysis adopts a multilevel perspective, connecting individual-level behaviours and decisions (micro), national population dynamics and policy frameworks (macro), and regional and local contexts (meso). Particular emphasis is placed on cross-national comparisons and selected country cases, exploring the interrelationships between demography, welfare systems, labour markets, social inequalities, and political and institutional change in Europe and beyond.

Reference Books and Course Materials Mandatory textbook: Lundquist, J. H., Anderton, D. L., & Yaukey, D. (2015). Demography: The Study of Human Population (4th ed.). Waveland Press. Additional materials: Statistical datasets, official reports, academic journal articles, book chapters, and lecture slides will be made available to students throughout the course via the myLuiss platform.

Lectures with guest speakers and expert testimonials; Case studies and comparative analysis; Inquiry-based learning; Problem-based learning; Peer learning and student-led activities; Flipped-classroom activities.

Exam and Assessment Team project (30%): written report (15%) and oral presentation (15%) on a topic agreed upon with the instructor. Individual oral examination (70%): based on the textbook and lecture slides. Grading Scale Grades are expressed on a 30-point scale, from 18 to 31, with 17 or below considered insufficient. The performance levels are classified as follows: Insufficient: 17 or below Sufficient: 18–20 Good: 21–23 Very good: 24–26 Excellent: 27–29 Outstanding: 30–31 Attendance Policy Regular attendance is required. Students who are unable to attend a class must notify the instructor and provide a valid justification. Students with legitimate reasons for absence are expected to inform the instructor at the beginning of the course. Students who are unable to attend classes regularly will be classified as non-attending students. To pass the exam, non-attending students must write an essay on a topic assigned by the instructor and take an individual oral examination on the exam date. The oral examination will cover the textbook and lecture slides, while the essay topic will be selected from the subjects covered during the course. Students who anticipate difficulties in attending classes regularly are strongly encouraged to contact the instructor within the first two weeks of the semester.

Thesis proposals will be assessed based on the following criteria: Relevance to the course: consistency with the course topics and objectives. Research question: clarity, originality, and academic relevance of the proposed research question. Student preparation and motivation: relevant academic background, demonstrated interest, and commitment to the topic.