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Roots And Dynamics Of Regionalism Essay

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The roots and dynamics of regionalism Regionalism is defined as” the sustained cooperation, formal or informal, among governments, non-government organizations, or the private sector in three or more countries for mutual gain” (Alagappa 1994: 158). Regionalism does not mean necessarily that the states or the members of regional organizations have to be from the same geographic area, they are rather a group of members that have shared needs or perceptions that see coming together would help and benefit all of them. There are two sets of types of factors that result in regionalist approach; the political and the economical. The political factors: Identity: This includes common culture and religion (internal factors) or common peace and security that would bring countries together to defeat a common enemy in history (external factors). Internal and external threats: This can be a reason that brings states together to protect themselves. A clear example could be seen in the NATO alliance as it was firstly made as a collective protection method against the communist threat. Domestic policies: a domestic policy would support national manufacturing and production would more support those who export as well, this would mean it has to make easier trade laws with other countries and to open borders to economic trade more, an example could be seen in MERCOSUR. Leadership: in all groups if there is no leader to organize things, all matters fall down. It is the same for regional

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