Autonomia,integraçãoregionalepolítica externabrasileira:Mercosuleunasul

Abstract

The goal of this article is to discuss how autonomy as an idea and practice in Brazilian foreign policy relates to the country's stance in regional integration process in the Southern Cone region and, more broadly, in South America, from 1991 to 2012. It discusses the meaning of autonomy in terms of Brazilian policies for the region, as well as its consequences in the process of integration itself and regional organizations. The article identifies shifts and continuities in the idea of autonomy and evaluates how they affect the consolidation of organizations, particularly, Mercosul and Unasul. Building upon the relevant literature and primary sources, it concludes that ambiguities exist; yet there is a prevailing trend towards the strengthening of cooperation and integration. The strengthening of democracy and peace are key interests during the investigated timeframe.