To the Question of the Methodology for Evaluating the Effectiveness of Integration Associations on the Example of ASEAN and EAEU

This study is aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the EAEU and ASEAN taking into account the dynamics of their development as well as identify the features of methodological approaches using for assessing the effectiveness of integration associations.

Aim. A comparative analysis of ASEAN and EAEU in terms of the effectiveness of these associations, as well as an analysis of existing methodological approaches for assessing the effectiveness of regional integration structures.

Tasks. Carry out monitoring of existing methods of assessing the effects of international economic integration and approaches of assessing the effectiveness of integration associations in general. To identify the “weaknesses” of the applied methodological approaches and to formulate practical recommendations for an objective and comprehensive assessment of the effectiveness of international integration associations.

Methods. The article uses the comparative analysis method, SWOT analysis method, the gravity method and a system of indicators of Eurasian integration.

Results. We have to admit that there is still no methodology that allows to compare the effectiveness of various integration blocks correctly. Therefore, it is advisable to evaluate integration associations only comprehensively taking into account not only economic indicators but also political factors.

Conclusion. At the moment there is no comprehensive methodology that would allow to compare the effectiveness of various integration structures and intergovernmental organizations in terms of clearly defined quantitative and qualitative indicators. The study revealed that all applied methods have a number of errors that complicate an objective assessment. The lack of relevant data and statistics on a number of key parameters, the complexity of accounting and analysis of intangible factors of production and cooperation, ignoring possible negative effects from integration and a number of other problems make it impossible to build a comprehensive methodology for assessing the effectiveness of regional integration.

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