Handbook of Regional Cooperation and Integration

Edited by Philippe De Lombaerde, Director, United Nations University (UNU-CRIS), Belgium; and Associate Professor of International Economics, Neoma BS, France

This is an open access title available under the terms of a CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 License. It is free to read, download and share on Elgaronline.com.

This timely Handbook offers a detailed cross-policy assessment on the need, locale and impact of regional cooperation and integration, addressing how the principles of regional integration have affected multi-level governance and subsequent public policy. Individual chapters provide explanations of what regional cooperation means in a specific policy area, identify relevant theories, and present empirical evidence to support the arguments outlined.

‘This book is very timely because the challenges of climate change, peace and security and sustainable development we face require regional collaboration and solidarity to successfully tackle. The collaboration between regions in the global South and global North is also crucial for resolving these issues.’
– Tshilidzi Marwala, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Rector of United Nations University

‘Philippe De Lombaerde and his ardent team of fearless experts have produced more than a timeless reference manual on the economics of cooperation. This innovative, rigorous, and readable compendium is also a blueprint for thinking about the economy of togetherness—and practicing it happily but without illusions or regrets in a globalized world of dilemmas and trilemmas.’
– Célestin Monga, Harvard University, US

‘An enlightening exploration of regional cooperation's profound impact. This book navigates the complexities of integration, revealing its potential to foster progress and prosperity while illuminating the significance of regional integration in shaping international trade dynamics. An essential read for policymakers, economists, and trade enthusiasts alike.’
– Alfred K'Ombudo, Principal Secretary, Trade, Kenya

‘This extraordinary book presents and analyzes the multi-dimensional universe of regional cooperation and integration. Across seventeen policy areas, it explores the potential of innovative regional frameworks with solid economics and beyond. This is a product of UNU-CRIS’s extensive research networks and Dr. De Lombaerde's superb leadership.’
– Fukunari Kimura, Keio University, Japan and Chief Economist, Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), Indonesia