A New Multi-Dimensional Framework for Analyzing Regional Integration : Regional Integration Evaluation (RIE) Methodology

Researchers from different fields have attempted to explain regional integration using different theories and analytical tools. These theories and analytical tools typically visualize the regional integration process from the perspective of a single discipline, usually economics but also political science, sociology, or technology and science. However, such one-dimensional analytical approach cannot fully capture the richness and complexity of regional integration, which is an inherently multi-dimensional process. To address the problem, we propose a multi-dimensional analytical framework – the regional integration evaluation (RIE) methodology. We apply this methodology for analyzing NAFTA, ASEAN, MERCOSUR and EU