Paradiplomacy and the Diffusion of Regional Integration: An Analysis of the Mercocidades Network
Paradiplomacy and the Diffusion of Regional Integration: An Analysis of the Mercocidades Network

Summary/Abstract: The process of regional integration in South America, or more specifically the process of regional integration with regard to MERCOSUR, took place in parallel to an increase in the municipal paradiplomacy. The globalization process, which took place after the end of the Cold War, opened a space for a greater participation of sub-national actors in international relations, not only because of the inability of the state to satisfy all local demands, but also because the sub-national governments´ perception of a new opportunity for cooperation being opened. In this sense, the South American regional integration process, which gave rise to MERCOSUR, was a base for the creation of an intermunicipal network called MERCOCIDADES, which resulted in an institutional space for greater involvement of sub-national governments in the regional integration process, with the establishment of the Consultative Forum of Cities, States, Provinces and Departments of MERCOSUR. That is, the diffusion of the integration process, from a paradiplomatic perspective, was an important element for the incorporation of new actors, strengthening it and making it more open to local demands. It is said that the local is at the basis of national development, considering the ‘islands of development’ which are built along the territory of a country.

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