Theorizing the nature of regional integration in the Horn of Africa: the case of IGAD

Abstract

Regional integration theories focus on the scientific explanation of the processes and impacts of regional organizations that exist in different parts of the world. Theories of integration most of the time try to probe the actors, drivers, processes, and outcomes of regional integration that exist in Europe. Scholars have extensively examined the European Union’s experience and have developed several theories to establish the theoretical underpinnings of European integration. However, when it comes to the nature of regional integration in the Horn of Africa, there is no adequate research that examines the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) from possible theoretical perspectives. To this end, this study examines the genesis, actors, drivers, dynamics, and outcomes of regional integration in the IGAD region based on mainstream integration theories such as functionalism, neo-functionalism, intergovernmentalism, liberal intergovernmentalism, transactionalism, federalism, post-functionalism, institutionalism, constructivism, and pan-Africanism. As a result, the study finds that the combination of intergovernmentalism, institutionalism, constructivism, and pan-Africanism can serve as appropriate frameworks to analyze the process of regional integration in the Horn of Africa. Regarding the method, the researchers used secondary sources of data such as books, articles, reports, conference proceedings, and dissertations to defend arguments supported by the study.