Social dimension of economic integration: challenges and proposals

Abstract

This is a motion for discussion that is supported by a larger paper related to commitments and statements on social dimension dealing with economic integration processes in the region. On the matter the author attempts to highlight a remarkable disproportion between these commitments and statements and the scarce development of actions taken on behalf of that same political discourse.

The author examines the possible reasons why the various agencies and intergovernmental forums would be approaching this matter wrongly.
In this regard many problems concerning the social dimension in integration processes are related to the conditions under which governments operate in Latin America. Then, taking these problems into account, the author stresses the need to conceptualize the social dimension of integration from a methodological perspective that is, characterizing different types of arrangements under which collective action could unfold with hints of viability.
Finally, the article puts forward proposals to design and then implement a variety of initiatives
and overcome the obstacles that hinder its implementation.