Regionalism in Comparative Perspective

TLDR

Globalization is accompanied by regional integration processes that differ across regions, with Asia’s informal, inclusive networks contrasting with Europe’s formal, exclusive structures. The study aims to enhance international political analysis by incorporating these regionally distinct integration structures.

Abstract

Processes of globalization are occurring in a world marked by processes of regional integration that are comparable though different. Integration processes in both Asia and Europe are open to global forces and marked by multiple centres of influence. In Asia, integration processes occur in informal and inclusive network structures. This contrasts with the more formal and exclusive pattern that characterizes the integration process among continental European states. Our analysis of international politics could be enriched if it took more account of these emerging structures in different world regions.