Executive Summary:
The
study takes stock of current trends in regional integration processes in
the Mediterranean. Examining regional dynamics on both the North-South
and South-South axis, the study argues that political and structural
impediments continue to hamper regional integration. While North-South
cooperation seems to be moving out of its temporary impasse, the
Euro-Mediterranean project has changed its character and has become
increasingly fragmented. South-South integration, similarly, has made a
step forward with the establishment of GAFTA and the Agadir Process, but
remains weighted down by a lack of political commitment and serious
structural impediments. In the absence of political support,
globalisation has further accentuated a growing trend towards regional
fragmentation. Movement towards deeper integration therefore remains
primarily limited to a bilateral level. In order to prevent a further
fragmenting of the Mediterranean region and to assist southern
Mediterranean countries to overcome structural barriers to integration,
the study recommends a greater emphasis on interregional cooperation and
more European support for South-South integration.