Recent
history provides new insights into the true characteristics
of globalisation and it has become necessary therefore
to reconsider this phenomenon. From the perspective
of regional integration, there are many new and
diverse approaches which must be considered. Since
globalisation is evidently selective in awarding
benefits, a clearer understanding of the unique
sub-regional and national challenges facing nations
in the Americas should help contribute to the refinement
of a strategy for collective prosperity, growth
and the ability to participate in the international
system.
The
Americas consist predominantly of developing countries
and, with the apparent derailing of the FTAA process
over the past two years, the future appears more
uncertain than ever. Since the competitiveness of
individual countries depends to a considerable extent
on a joint approach, attempts have been made at
the sub-regional level to hasten integration in
various forms.
It
is the hope of the conference organisers that participants
will explore the unique challenges confronting the
current regional integration process. This exploration
is expected to result in an injection of innovative
and challenging thought relating to the unique political,
social and economic challenges of each regional
player. The results of this dialogue should help
provide guidance in the re-alignment, or re-creation,
of a meaningful regional integration movement. It
is anticipated that this attempt at rationalising
the integration debate will contribute towards clarity
of vision and direction in current and future processes.
Through a process of collaborative discussion, the
following seven areas of focus have been determined
as suitable themes for the conference.
1.
The Americas in the Changing World Order
2.
Hemispheric Trade and Economic Relations
3.
Social, Political and Cultural Implications of Emerging
Hemispheric Relations
4.
Governance and Multilateralism
5.
Trade, the Environment and Security in Hemispheric
Economic Relations
6.
Threats to Regional Security
7.
Towards a Re-mapping of Hemispheric Relations.
Each theme includes a list of sub-themes highlighting
examples of relevant ideas that are meant to guide
prospective presenters. Collectively, these themes
represent the major factors that require examination
if meaningful and effective regional integration
is to be achieved.
Deadline
for submission of Abstracts: 30th April 2005
Notification of acceptance of Abstracts: 30th May
2005
Submission of Full Papers: 31st August 2005