We live in a networked world and “network threats require networked responses” (Slaughter 2004). This also holds true for development policy where transnational collaboration has always played a major role. Global challenges such as climate change require joint efforts and holistic approaches, at the same time the effectiveness of aid has been questioned. With the rise of the so called emerging powers alternative development paths promise to better suit the needs of developing countries. These parallel trends pushed the international development cooperation community to rethink established patterns of interaction. High expectations are placed, inter alia, in transnational networks. Therefore, this paper focuses on transnational networks with a clear issue-oriented mandate and formalized membership, by seeking to explore:
First, typical networks functions such as knowledge sharing and mutual learning, coordination, conflict mediation and agenda setting. The added-value of a network can encompass match making with other actors and the provision of voice and visibility at the global stage.
Second, interests and roles of different actors involved in networks. From a rational choice perspective, potential members will only participate in a network if benefits exceed costs. For developing countries, being a member can become a “seal of quality” attracting donor support or FDI; whilst networks are also promising for Southern “middle powers” that – unlike emerging countries – have less weight in international relations unless they ally with others.
Third, members’ expectations, mainly based on the following assumptions: (i) in the long run, networks contribute to better results, (ii) networks can counterbalance power asymmetries internally among members and externally in particular fields of global politics.
Thus, this paper seeks to fill a research gap by exploring different transnational networks in the field of development cooperation, their functions, members’ interests and expectations, and their influence on governance structures in a multipolar world.
