Political Economy of Integration

The political economy of integration examines how countries join together—like forming trade blocs or unions—by balancing economic benefits such as increased trade and investment with political considerations like sovereignty and national identity. It explores how governments and interest groups influence the integration process, often weighing economic gains against political risks. This field analyzes how economic interdependence can promote stability and cooperation but also sparks disagreements over regulations, resource sharing, and policy control, shaping the overall success and design of integrated regional or global systems.