The Diffusion of Regionalism, Regional Institutions, Regional Governance

Risse, Thomas (2015) The Diffusion of Regionalism, Regional Institutions, Regional Governance. [Conference Proceedings] (Submitted)

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Abstract

Introduction: This chapter begins by conceptualizing diffusion in terms of initial stimuli, items of diffusion (that what is being diffused), mechanisms, and outcomes (for a similar attempt see Solingen, 2012; Klingler-Vidra and Schleifer, 2014). I distinguish between direct and indirect mecha-nisms of diffusion and also differentiate between adoption/convergence and adapta-tion/localization as diffusion outcomes. I then review the existing literature on the diffusion of regional organization (RO) focusing, first, on the diffusion of regionalism and regional orders, second, of institutional designs for regional organizations, and, third, of regional governance pertaining to specific policy areas. On the whole, the literature confirms that most ROs are created to solve regional conflicts or provide solutions for collective action problems (demand side). However, direct as well as indirect diffusion mechanisms account for the specific insti-tutional designs of ROs and for the spread of policies among ROs (supply side). As to diffu-sion outcomes, different modes of adaptation and localization seem to prevail. I conclude with some remarks on avenues for future research.

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