In today's globalized international system, international and regional
organizations can only function effectively within the context of a
larger social partnership with governments, the private sectors, and a
plethora of increasingly influential interest groups.
Regionalism Versus Multilateralism seeks to illustrate these new roles
by tracing the way the Organization of American States (OAS), the oldest
regional organization, has pursued its objectives in the context of
evolving hemispheric and international circumstances. It analyzes the
impact of these circumstances on the operations, programs and activities
of the Organization, and the adjustments and direction which
`metamorphosed' the regional membership at certain crucial junctures of
hemispheric and international evolution.
The book does so in three parts: through an historic examination of the
objectives of the Organization; a critical analysis of its response over
time to the forces of growth, transformation and change; and the
projection of what continuing developments might dictate on the future
characteristics of the Organization if it is to respond effectively to
the needs and aspirations of member states.
This book is a collaboration between Christopher R. Thomas and Julian T.
Magloire, with both parties contributing equally to its content and
preparation.