Facing Asymmetry

Book excerpt: The book analyzes the concept of asymmetry in international relations on the example of United States and Mexico. This bilateral relation is introduced within wider historical, economic and political context. It also includes a case study on perceptions of Mexico in U.S. media. The study focuses on critical issues in bilateral relations within the context of asymmetric relations. Economic integration under North American Free Trade Agreement, extensive migration from Mexico to the U.S. and the issue of drug-trafficking and drug-control efforts are analyzed in this respect. The concluding chapter uses the findings to conceptualize asymmetric relations and presents possible applications of the key findings to complex bilateral issues.