Abstract

DOTSCH, Helene. Unintentional power sources? Institutional setup and effects on bargaining in inter-regional negotiations - the EU and the MERCOSUR. Rev. secr. Trib. perm. revis. [online]. 2020, vol.8, n.16, pp.77-99. ISSN 2304-7887.  https://doi.org/10.16890/rstpr.a8.n16.p77.

This research article takes one step to investigate bargaining in international politics and shows how institutional dynamics influence a regional institution’s ability to realize the own set policy goals. The chosen case, the trade negotiations between the EU and MERCOSUR, presents a way to assess both institutions abilities and dynamical underpinnings in the interaction with each other. Based on a qualitative research design, the article examines the experiences of negotiators on both continents that have directly participated in the EU-MERCOSUR negotiations. The results show that while a high degree improves learning processes, expertise, and external legitimacy, it bears a high risk of rigidity and therefore, failure. The research article draws precise conclusions for the way we study regional institutions examining how their set-up influences strategic choices.

Keywords : MERCOSUR; European Union; inter-regionalism; trade; bargaining; institutionalism.

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