1 Introducing a Layered Global Player -- Part I: Legal Dynamics in the Outer Layer: 2 The Common Foreign and Security Policy -- 3 The Common Security and Defence Policy -- Part II: Legal Dynamics of the Middle Layers: 4 The Common Commercial Policy -- 5 The External Environmental Policy -- 6 The External Human Rights Policy -- 7 The Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid Policy -- Part III: Legal Dynamics in the Inner Layer: 8 Special Relationships in the European Neighbourhood and Beyond -- 9 The EU, the Member States and International Law -- 10 Conclusion: An Effective Global Player?. .This book offers a concise yet comprehensive review of the principles of EU external relations law. By carefully examining the role of the Union on the global scene, it provides a systematic overview of the relevant rules and competences, reflecting on the legal developments in their political and societal context. In addition to up-to-date analyses of, inter alia, the Common Foreign and Security Policy, the Common Security and Defence Policy and the Common Commercial Policy, it highlights the EU's external powers with regard to the environment, fundamental rights and development cooperation. Moreover, it includes dedicated chapters exploring the relations with neighbouring countries, and explaining the complex interplay between rules of domestic, European and international provenance. The second edition of this established text (the first edition was published under the title Layered Global Player in 2011) has been geared even more specifically towards students, for example through the inclusion of chapter overviews, clarifying boxes, and supplementary examples, while a meticulous review of the narrative has further enhanced its accessibility. As before, the book’s compact dimensions, transparent structure and engaging style of writing enable readers to master the main features of this gripping field of law with ease. It thus remains an invaluable resource for students and lecturers alike.