Research on Inter-regionalism: Achievements and Shortcomings

　　Abstract: Inter-regionalism is a new phenomenon in international relations and is also represents a new field in IR research. Western researchers have already conducted a great deal of preliminary research on the meaning and implications of, the motivations for and the function of inter-regionalism, and have looked at its relationship with regionalism and multilateralism. While most research by Chinese scholars has followed in the footsteps of Western scholars, there are several researchers who have made breakthroughs in terms of related research methodology and the direction of the research. Future research on this topic will likely split off in two directions: comparative and theoretical analysis. For Chinese researchers, the key challenge will be to grasp both particularity and universality within inter-regionalism, and to identify a research agenda which meets the needs of both national interests and international strategy.

　　Author: Zhu Tianxiang is a PhD Student of the School of International Relations and Public Affairs of the Fudan University