Review of International Studies · 2009 · 131 citations · 0 references
Social SciencesGeographyInternational RelationsRegional GeographyRegional GovernanceRegional StudiesGeopoliticsRegional PolicyRegional Political EconomyActorsInternational Relations TheoryRegional ArchitectureRegional Geography TheoryRegional Governance StructuresRegional Power StructuresRegional Security ArchitectureState Geography
Regions are central to geography and international relations, yet their definitions and contexts—economic, security, and others—remain contested. The article investigates contested conceptions of what constitutes a region and the functioning of regional architecture, and proposes future research directions. It synthesises thematic and case‑specific literature, analysing geography, identity, culture, institutionalisation, and the roles of hegemons, regional powers, and other actors.
Abstract Long a focal point in the study of Geography, regions have become a major concern of International Relations, and for some even its essence. Principle definitions and approaches, however, remain contested, as do the contexts in which and how they matter, from economic to security. This article examines contested views on what constitutes a region and on the nature and functioning of regional architecture, drawing from thematic and case-specific literature to indicate the expanse of analytical enquiry. These include the roles and interpretations of geography, identity, culture, institutionalisation, and the role of actors, including a hegemon, major regional powers and others actors from within a region, both state and societal. A final section indicates additional areas for future research.