A New Multi-Dimensional Framework for Analysing Regional Integration: Regional Integration Evaluation Methodology

Authors

  • Donghyun Park Asian Development Bank
  • Mario Arturo Ruiz Estrada University of Malaya

Keywords:

ASEAN, economic integration, economic modeling, EU, MERCOSUR, NAFTA

Abstract

Theories of regional integration typically analyse the regional integration process from the perspective of a single discipline, usually economics. However, such one-dimensional analytical frameworks cannot fully capture the richness and complexity of the inherently multi-dimensional regional integration process. To address the problem, we propose the regional integration evaluation (RIE) methodology which is based on four dimensions of development - economic, political, social and technological. The central idea behind the RIE methodology is that regional development promotes regional integration. Our RIE methodology differs from the existing literature in that it is based on a more comprehensive definition of development rather than just an economic one. Our definition of a region's development incorporates the development levels of all regional countries as well as differences in development levels among regional countries. We applied the RIE methodology to assess regional development and hence integration prospects of NAFTA, ASEAN, MERCOSUR and EU.

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Author Biographies

Donghyun Park, Asian Development Bank

Economics and Research Department, Asian Development Bank

Mario Arturo Ruiz Estrada, University of Malaya

Faculty of Economics and Administration, University of Malaya

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Published

2017-06-02

Issue

Section

Articles