LAUSR

ABSTRACT This contribution re-engages grand theories of integration that have been developed with the European experience in mind. We ask to what extent these theories travel beyond Europe. Standard integration theories, such as neo-functionalism or liberal intergovernmentalism, privilege economic interdependence as a key driver of regional integration. We map intra-regional trade as a proxy of economic interdependence against the density and strength of regionalism in major world regions demonstrating that there is little correlation. Building upon post-functionalism, we then develop our own comparative regionalist account encompassing three building blocks: first, functional demands for regionalism stemming mainly from security interdependence and the quest for regime stability; second, the supply of regional integration through elite efforts at regional identity construction resonating with mass public opinion; and, last not least, the diffusion of institutional designs across regions. We claim that this account can not only explain regionalism across the globe, but even fits better the European experience than standard theories of integration.