Regional Trade Integration and Conflict Resolution

This volume addresses the growth of regional trade agreements (RTAs) which have mushroomed since the 1990s, and considers their potential as a tool for reducing inter- and intra-state conflict. Exploring the links between trade, conflict and peace in different and varying contexts, this book maps the extant RTAs in the region, analyses the factors which hinder or promote regional trade integration and considers their economic and political impacts. Presenting a series of case studies in four regions: South America; the southern African region; South Asia and South East Asia, the authors consider three key questions: What is the significance of the recent and rapid development of RTAs for peace building both within and between countries? To what extent do RTAs engender inter and intrastate conflict? To what extent are trade and RTAs hostage to conflict and is regional political stability a precondition for economic integration? Regional Trade Integration and Conflict Resolution will be of interests to students and scholars of trade, international relations and conflict studies. It will also be of interest to policy makers and NGOs.