Kia kaha Europe: Teaching and Learning European Union Law in New Zealand

Abstract

How do we as teachers make European Union law obviously relevant to students studying at a university level in New Zealand? The relationship between New Zealand and the European Union is strong and important – from our trade relations to our partnership in the Pacific; it is not hard to see a space for teaching European Union law in New Zealand. Yet, the question of how we improve students’ interest in this topic is vital and difficult. There needs to be a balance between teaching European Union law as something in and of itself (the core content – the laws and processes), and teaching the context for which it is useful to New Zealand law students. Integrating European Union law with specific Asia-Pacific contextual issues such as climate change, trade or regional integration has to be the way forward. One recommendation is to produce a New Zealand student textbook or some European Union law teaching materials relevant to New Zealand students. Having resources which emphasis the New Zealand (or even with the broader ambit of Asia-Pacific) context is a current gap. A legal textbook for New Zealand students learning European Union law would be valuable and should highlight the context and relevance of learning it. This would of course include core content, but perhaps illustrate it with a New Zealand themed example. For example, a New Zealand company or government finance agency working in the European Union. Further recommendations are broader. The lack of motivation that lecturers find in their students appears to be linked to a limited foundational knowledge on the European Union, its relationship to New Zealand, and thus influences the attitude a student has towards a course. It is difficult to recommend a way in which this might be mitigated. However, it might be wise to consider providing more elementary level courses, inviting recognised guest lecturers, or undertaking a more flexible and adaptive course model. Teaching European Union law in New Zealand is incredibly valuable. New Zealand’s relations with the European Union are increasing in importance, and it is vital that European Union law is thus understood by New Zealanders.