De la régionalisation aux relations interrégionales : le cas des relations entre le Mercosur et l'Union européenne
(2008)
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- Authors
- Supervisors
- Schmiegelow-Lauwers, Michèle
- Abstract
- The author proposes a political approach of regional integration as a starting point to explore the prospects of a rapprochement between two regions of the world which are divided by important asymmetries. Regional integration is examined here as a process of progressive co-operation among states which share a common political project and which decide to grant each other relative preferences. Even if a common base of historical and identity factors make each case unique, some generalizations appear to be possible. Integration is thus revisited as a defensive and at the same time "reformist" strategy conducted by the state. The game is played at three levels, namely the core of the state, the regional space itself and the international arena. Theories of European integration are briefly examined in a historical perspective in order to highlight the relation between state, society and institutions which guides research in this paradigmatic case. The bulk of this research concentrates on the Latin American region in the 1990's and in particular on the initial stages of Mercosur. Mercosur proves very soon its aptitude to structure its region not only economically but also politically. In addition, it contributes with identity definitions which combine the common heritage to a democratic and peaceful ideology. Notwithstanding important obstacles to the objectives of integration are simmering in the core of Member States. International governance in those post- cold war years contributes to dig these opposing influences. The international environment is examined particularly from the point of view of the "Atlantic triangle", (Europe, Latin America and the United States) as well as from the ideology which accompanies globalization. The EU reshapes at that time its Latin American policies in a move which can be described as a blend of defensive realism and strategic reformism. In this context, it backs Mercosur as from the very beginning, offering its political and technical support. Relations that had previously been antagonistic on the trade front seem ready to release a brand new potential of co-operation. The new trend reaches an important benchmark in 1995 when both sides agree to achieve an association based on political dialogue, enhanced co-operation and trade liberalization. It is certainly an ambitious goal since huge asymmetries exist among players. They concern not only relative power but also the level reached by the respective regional organizations. This challenge is seen here as an invitation to explore the various stages of the rapprochement between the EU and Mercosur in order to encircle the keys of an enigma still now unsolved.
- Affiliations
Citations
Salvador, H. H. (2008). De la régionalisation aux relations interrégionales : le cas des relations entre le Mercosur et l’Union européenne. https://hdl.handle.net/2078.5/40269