Rethinking regionalism: Europe and East Asia in comparative historical perspective

Regionally based processes of political and economic integration, security co-operation, and even social identification have become increasingly important and prominent parts of the international system. Nowhere have such processes gone further than in Western Europe. Somewhat surprisingly, similar patterns of regional integration have been steadily developing in East Asia - a region many observers consider unlikely to replicate the European experience. This paper uses an historically grounded comparative approach to examine the historical preconditions that underpinned the formation of the European Union, and then contrasts them with the situation in East Asia today. While the overall geopolitical and specific national contexts are very different, such an analysis highlights surprising similarities and differences, particularly in the role played by the United States in both periods. A comparative analysis allows us to understand and rethink the incentives for, and constraints on, regional integrative processes.

North-East elevation, Lake Weyba House, Sunshine Coast

Bedroom pavilion on left, bath house pavilion centre and main pavilion on right.

North-East elevation, Lake Weyba House, Sunshine Coast

As seen from East, looking along pavilions. Bedroom pavilion and day bed alcove in foreground.

South-East elevation, Brannigan House, St Lucia, Brisbane

Facing rear of site.

South-East elevation, Brannigan House, St Lucia, Brisbane

Facing rear of site.

East elevation, Sunshine Beach House, Sunshine Coast

Part of eastern street elevation, with fenestrations, external shower, entrance and viewing deck.

East elevation, Sunshine Beach House, Sunshine Coast

Part of eastern street elevation, with fenestrations, external shower, entrance and viewing deck.

East elevation, Sunshine Beach House, Sunshine Coast

Part of eastern street elevation, with fenestrations.

East elevation, Sunshine Beach House, Sunshine Coast

Part of eastern street elevation, with fenestrations, external shower, entrance and viewing deck.

East elevation, Sunshine Beach House, Sunshine Coast

Part of eastern street elevation, with fenestrations, entrance, external shower and viewing deck.

East elevation, Sunshine Beach House, Sunshine Coast

Part of eastern street elevation, with fenestrations, entrance, external shower and viewing deck.

East elevation, Sunshine Beach House, Sunshine Coast

View of formal entrance to house, through garage.