Mariam Khotenashvili

TEPSA - Trans European Policy Studies Association

The Trans European Policy Studies Association (TEPSA) is the first transeuropean research network in the field of European affairs. It consists of leading research institutes in the field of European affairs throughout Europe, with an office in Brussels. TEPSA's aim is to provide high quality research on European integration based on a ‘Triple A' approach: Analysis, Assessment and Advice in order to stimulate discussion on policies and political options for Europe. The network was established in 1974 as an international non-profit association under Belgian law. Ever since 1974 it has steadily increased its membership in response to the enlargement rounds of the European Union. Today TEPSA consists of 43 member institutes and associate members located in 36 European countries. TEPSA and its member institutes have engaged in a two-fold approach providing expertise on EU policies and politics combined with a vast experience in organising and conducting EU-wide research, training and networks. With its decentralised approach, TEPSA combines the strengths of its members and enriches the results of their work. TEPSA exemplifies the ‘bottom-up' approach to European governance. TEPSA and its member institutes are a link between the EU and national level governments and the citizens. TEPSA aims at stimulating discussion on policies and political options by organising research projects, conferences and facilitating interaction between the research and policy-making communities and between citizens from different member states. TEPSA's activities are undertaken in close cooperation with partners ranging from TEPSA member institutes from all over Europe to EU institutions, national governments, universities and civil society.