Chair of Comparative Politics (Prof. Dr. Sandra Eckert)

The Chair of Comparative Politics is dedicated to the comparative study of political structures and processes within and across countries. At different levels of government (federal states, nation, EU), we study how institutional contexts and conditions affect political processes and outcomes.

Our research focuses on governance in the European multi-level system, European integration, policy analysis in a German and European context, comparative federalism and institutional reform in Germany. Furthermore, we are interested in democratization processes, with a special focus on transitional states in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Our seminars and courses introduce students to a comparative perspective on institutions and politics, covering a broad variety of topics and regions. We aim to provide teaching which closely integrates empirical research, and we encourage and support students to develop their own research projects for term papers and BA/MA theses. Methodologically, we are committed to a pluralistic approach that includes both qualitative and quantitative methods.

Throughout the winter term 2023/2024 and summer term 2024 Prof. Dr. Sandra Eckert is on maternity and parental leave. During this period Prof. Dr. Constantin Wurthmann will represent the chair as an interim professor.