Interregionalism, the institutionalized relations between world regions, is a new phenomenon in international relations. It also a new layer of development in an increasingly differentiated global order. This volume examines the structure of this phenomenon and the scholarly discourse it is generating. It takes stock of empirical facts and theoretical explanations, bringing together with clarity and concision the latest research on this key area. This essential new book: * traces the emergence of interregionalism and reviews the latest literature * provides a conceptual and theoretical framework for study * includes case studies of inter-regional relations between: Asia and America; Asia and Europe; Europe and America; and Europe and Africa. * delivers comparative analyses and special cases such as continental summits and interregional relationships beyond the Triad. * summarizes and evaluates the findings of each chapter, providing a basis for further research. This is a key reference book for students and researchers of regionalism, global governance and international relations.

Over the last two decades, globalization and regionalization have led to the emergence of an increasingly differentiated multi-level system of global governance. One characteristic of this system is the growing level of interaction among regional organization and these interregional relations constitute a novelty in international relations, one that varies greatly in form, in function and in level of institutionalization.
"Interregionalism and International Relations" is the first attempt to summarize the state of the art in this rich new field of international relations research. It provides a comprehensive, theory-guided introduction into the numerous facets of this new phenomenon. Following a theoretical explanation and a typology of interregional relations, subsequent parts of the book examine key contacts between major world regions such as Asia and American, Asia and Europe, America and Europe, and Africa and Europe. This book also presents comparative analysis and borderline cases that transcend the standard manifestations of interregionalism.
With high-level contributors noted for their expertise in international relations and their expertise in interregion relations, this volume will appeal to political science scholars, diplomats and those with an interest in global and regional diplomacy.