The distinctiveness of the European Union's influence on Latin America: European values, governance, and integration.

摘要

The European Union's priorities and capabilities in international relations and security have changed considerably since the end of communism. They did not only develop as a consequence of internal policy developments but also from external opportunities and expectations. Overtime, it has become evident that the EU exerts substantial influence over world politics even though it has limited military power at its disposal. Instead, it relies on other tools that help build the attractiveness and success of its norms and values. By examining the case studies of Honduras and Cuba I argue that the European Union has a new opportunity to be a leading political player in Latin America and to promote itself as a more imperative actor in world politics. The EU's normative power, gives it sufficient leverage to positively influence Latin America through: European norms and values, good governance, and regional integration.