by FLACSO (Organization). Secretaría General, CIDOB (Center), Fundación Carolina
by FLACSO (Organization). Secretaría General, CIDOB (Center), Fundación Carolina
[Description in English]
Latin America and the Caribbean: Global Links in a Complex Multilateral Context
Latin America and the Caribbean is a diverse and heterogeneous region in a transforming world. The forms and types of international insertion implemented by the region's countries correspond to different politico-strategic visions, and this is reflected in their relations with other regions of the world. Association for the sake of cooperation appears to be an effective demand for satisfying national and regional interests both in the European Union and in Latin America and the Caribbean. That cooperation requires the establishment of links between the different forums and processes of multilateral, regional and bi-regional coordination, cooperation and integration within a logic of multilevel governance that is in keeping with the changes brought about by increasing multi-polarity. In order for the Latin American and Caribbean region to increase its influence in the new multilateralism now being constructed, it must face an enormous challenge, which involves building a common position on priority areas, as well as putting together a politico-strategic project that can orient its insertion into the international system. Along these lines, Latin America is witnessing the emergence of new forms of association at the intra-regional level that differ from former integration mechanisms. Similarly, the new relationships being formed between the nations of the region and countries and groups of countries outside of the continent show how Latin America is becoming inserted into a system with multiple actors. Cases in point are the BRIC countries and the G-20.