This module aims to give students a broad understanding of the key contemporary issues faced by political institutions and policymakers in the United Kingdom and in an international context. The module will analyse key challenges faced by democratic institutions around the world as well as by policymakers in the areas of education, labour and health. The module will also briefly cover the present and future challenges presented by Brexit and the policy reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, the module will assess the contribution that Economics as a discipline can offer to tackle the challenges presented by environmental changes and congestion. The module will allow students to apply theoretical concepts to real life challenges