Enablers and barriers for local government engagement in the co-creation of green transitions: Evidence from Denmark and Canada

The proliferation of co-creation in contemporary governance landscapes raises fundamental questions about the diverse roles local governments can occupy within collaborative networks. Our research contributes a nuanced typology that categorizes public sector actors based on their direct or indirect involvement in collaborative networks, focusing on their conflict potential and influence on decision-making processes. Collaborative Participants, characterized by high conflict potential and direct involvement, are dynamic actors shaping collaborative networks. Motivated by a desire to align outcomes with their sector's objectives, they actively engage in decision-making, driving network results by leveraging their expertise, resources, and policy objectives. Mediators and Facilitators, with low conflict potential and direct involvement, play a pivotal role in managing conflicts and fostering cooperation within collaborative networks. They contribute actively to decision-making processes, employing communication and negotiation skills to build consensus among diverse stakeholders, resulting in harmonious outcomes. Advisory and Monitoring Bodies, exhibiting high conflict potential and indirect involvement, actively participate in collaborative networks by providing advice and monitoring activities. While not directly shaping decisions, their influential advisory roles significantly impact decision-making processes, adding complexity and potential for conflicts within the collaborative landscape. Regulators, characterized by low conflict potential and indirect involvement, establish and enforce rules guiding collaborative network activities. Though not directly engaged in core decision-making processes, regulators ensure alignment with existing policies and standards, contributing to the network's adherence to governmental guidelines. This typology, informed by a synthesis of existing literature and empirical studies, offers a comprehensive understanding of the varied roles local government actors play in co-creation efforts. Through illustrative case studies, we demonstrate how these typologies manifest in real-world scenarios, providing valuable insights for policymakers, scholars, and practitioners seeking to navigate the intricacies of collaborative networks and enhance the effectiveness of co-creation initiatives.