Small states in MERCOSUR: an asymmetrical relationship


Thesis Type: Postgraduate

Institution Of The Thesis: Middle East Technical University, Turkey

Approval Date: 2019

Student: Ezgi. İlhan

Supervisor: AYLİN TOPAL YILMAZ

Abstract:

This thesis examines the asymmetric structure within the framework of MERCOSUR, an economic union in Latin America, and questions the motivation of the small states of Paraguay and Uruguay to be part of this union, despite the disadvantageous consequences of this asymmetric structure. The main argument of this thesis is that small states within MERCOSUR have to cooperate as a result of sectoral and economic interdependence to their counterparts which arose from their existing structural disadvantageous positions. In order to achieve this result, Small State Theories have been utilized and the process that brought the establishment of MERCOSUR, the decision-making processes of MERCOSUR and the economic and political situations of small states have been examined.