Abstract

The aim of this chapter is to assess contemporary Southern American integration, while offering some thoughts on emerging trends that are likely to shape the future of the region. Theoretically, the chapter will reflect what in chapter 1 of this Companion is called the ‘third wave’ of regionalism(s), with its characteristics of a multitude of actors and processes – at different levels – impacting on the understanding and conceptualisation of the region that is the Americas. In this regard, the distinction between regionalism and regionalisation is a useful one, as it highlights the different actors and processes that continually shape and drive regions. ²