Regionalism and contemporary global issues

Question 1

realists on regionalism

Answer 1

• the state remains the primary actor
• cooperation on a regional scale is not possible due to states own intentions
• undermines state sovereignty

Question 2

liberals on regionalism

Answer 2

• makes cooperation far more likely
• the benefits of regionalism as demonstrated by the EU show why states engage in cooperation

Question 3

regionalism conflict positives

Answer 3

regionalism drives down the likelihood of conflict

Question 4

regionalism conflict negatives

Answer 4

• loss of sovereignty means nationalism and extremism can arise within states

Question 5

regionalism human rights positives

Answer 5

the EUs membership criteria includes respect for human rights and democracy

Question 6

regionalism human rights negatives

Answer 6

Human rights protection may suffer if some members prioritise sovereignty or national interests over collective enforcement.

Question 7

regionalism on the environment positives

Answer 7

collective action due to cooperation means issues like carbon are tackled more effectively eg EU carbon trading scheme

Question 8

regionalism on the environment negatives

Answer 8

protecting the environment requires global attention

Question 9

regionalism on poverty positives

Answer 9

the use of free trade within the blocs should drive economic development

Question 10

regionalism on poverty negatives

Answer 10

can lead to inequality between states, driving more people into poverty