RETHINKING REGIONAL INTEGRATION: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF MERCOSUR AND THE EAEU

This academic article investigates the processes of regional integration within MERCOSUR, a trade bloc in South America, and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), a regional organization in Eurasia. The objective is to identify the primary drivers, challenges and outcomes that have defined these distinct regional integration efforts.Applying a comparative analysis framework, the article scrutinizes thefactors that influence the varying degrees of success and the obstaclesencountered by MERCOSUR and the EAEU. Along with a comprehensive overview ofthe establishment, development and current conditions of these two regional organizations, the analysis takes into account both internal and external influences affectingeach bloc, including their governance structures, inter-member staterelations, and external economic pressures. Furthermore, it acknowledges the difficulties faced by each bloc, such as political instability, economic inequalities, and the implications of external geopolitical circumstances. While MERCOSUR and EAEU initiatives represent distinct regional integration models, a comparative analysis reveals a nuanced and multifaceted landscape where shared challenges and opportunities coexist alongside unique contextual factors. The findings yield valuable insights into the intricatedynamics and diverse implications of regional integration, extending beyond conventional economic and political considerations to include sociocultural,geopolitical, and sustainable development aspects that have profound and far-reaching consequences forthe participating countries.This research enriches the fields of international relations and comparative political economy by enhancing the understanding of the differing regional integration processes and the determinants of their success or failure. The results provide actionableinsights for policymakers engaged in regional integration initiatives, emphasizing best practices and potential challenges in promoting effective andsustainable regional collaboration. The study highlights the necessity of considering a wide range of dimensions –economic, political, sociocultural and environmental –when assessing regional integration efforts.