Abstract

ROCHA V., Alberto. A political dilemma at the historical crossroads of the process of regional integration in Latin America and the Caribbean. Sociologias [online]. 2004, n.11, pp. 64-87. ISSN 1517-4522.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S1517-45222004000100005.

Based on the analysis of internal and external political dynamics of Latin America and the Caribbean's regional and subregional integration mechanisms, one concludes that the region has built a weak economic position and a diffused political position within the FTAA negotiation process. This situation in the region becomes even more complex due to the new historical crossroads it faces and particularly for the political dilemma (regional or continental integration) that takes place in such crossroads. Clearly, we present the hypothesis of a crisis in the project of regional integration of Latin America and the Caribbean, and articulate the general ideas for a project of alternative regional integration.

Keywords : Latin America and the Caribbean; regional integration; FTAA; integration dilemma; alternative regional integration.