The experience of European integration and potential for Northeast Asian integration

Abstract

This article reflects on the experience of European integration in light of the ongoing process of regional integration in the Northeast Asian region. Based on the existing theories, the article summarizes twelve lessons of European integration, highlighting, for example, the importance of identifying a functional area, the convergence of interests (not an identity), the existence of strong leadership and supranational institutions, the significance of 'domestic democracy,' and the presence of hospitable external circumstances. The history and prominent current projects of regional cooperation in the Northeast Asian region are reviewed, followed by an investigation of the relevance and applicability of the lessons of European integration to Northeast Asia so as to derive a set of practical policy prescriptions for promoting regional integration in the region.