The European Central Bank (ECB) administers monetary policy for the eurozone and is tasked with maintaining price stability by keeping inflation below 2 per cent. This brief mandate belies the complexity of managing the monetary policy for the 19 member states of the euro, not to mention the politic...

The European Central Bank (ECB) administers monetary policy for the eurozone and is tasked with maintaining price stability by keeping inflation below 2 per cent. This brief mandate belies the complexity of managing the monetary policy for the 19 member states of the euro, not to mention the political implications thereof. This short book sets out the history, development and day-to-day workings of a key institutional pillar of the European Union. It assesses its work, independence, the policies and instruments at its disposal and the evolution of its role during the eurozone crisis of 2010. This is a welcome and succinct overview for students and researchers looking for an accessible introduction to the role and operation of the ECB.