Regional Alignments and Contestations

This chapter analyzes the European Union's collaborations with three regional entities: MERCOSUR, CARIFORUM, and Central America. Negotiating agreements with the European Union involves aligning standards, rules, and core liberal ideals. Nevertheless, the degree of alignment and contestation differ among the three regions. Despite over twenty years of negotiations and an agreement in principle in 2019, contestations still dominate the EU-MERCOSUR agenda. In regard to CARIFORUM, execution of the EPA has encountered various hindrances, necessitating further efforts to ensure effective coordination and consultation, enhance the involvement of civil society and streamline the EPA clauses to prevent unintended repercussions. The 2013 Association Agreement with Central America has yielded the most favorable outcomes since Central America has achieved a significant  level of trade integration.