MERCOSUR: a memory and legal – institutional balance

Abstract

Twenty years after its creation, MERCOSUR has become one of the integration processes that has remained for a longer time in Latin America. Undoubtedly, at present, the member states are willing to ensure its development. In this context, the question that arises is whether MERCOSUR will be able to go further deep in its scope, to achieve the desired common market or to expand itself towards other Latin American states in the future. Signs in both directions can be seen. The legal and institutional structure is a substantial hinge for its new configuration. The model of its progress is defined through its organizational structure. For these reasons, it would be appropriate to contribute to a legal –institutional balance, in order to explain the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats it faces with the purpose of making a contribution towards the improvement of its directions and enhancement of the decisions taken.