Regional cooperation and integration : intergovernmentalism approach to regional integration: a case of the African Continental Free Trade Area and effects on trade

Abstract

The liberal intergovernmentalist approach has been applied to numerous studies within the European Union (EU) context in the past, and lately to studies within the African regional integration context. Differing experiences with regards to regional integration have emerged in the EU and African contexts. The purpose of this study was to investigate the application of the liberal intergovernmentalist approach within the African context, in particular the African Contintental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The study followed a single case research design, meaning it was conducted within the setting of the AfCFTA. The study population comprised 16 participants and documents from the African Union (AU) regarding the AfCFTA. Various data-collection methods were used, including focus group interviews, face-to-face semi-structured interviews and qualitative content analysis – the rationale being that the case study approach required numerous data-collection methods to be employed. The methods utlised for data analysis were thematic analysis for focus groups and face-to-face semi-structured interviews, and qualitative content analysis for data obtained from the AU documents regarding the AfCFTA. Findings from the study might have a considerable effect regarding the interaction of African member states when undertaking regional intergration engagments.