Rasche, Andreas (2009) Multi-stakeholder initiatives as loosely coupled systems. In: 8th Annual EABIS Colloquium, Barcelona, Spain. Published in: Proceedings of the 8th Annual EABIS Colloquium

Abstract

This paper discusses the loosely coupled nature of multi-stakeholder initiatives (MSIs). Applying a concept from organization theory (i.e. loosely coupled systems logic) to research on collaborative governance in the context of corporate responsibility, we discuss why MSIs reflect loosely coupled systems and what we can learn from this. Our analysis consists of three main steps: (1) We characterize MSIs as two-tiered initiatives consisting of a macro-level (rule setting) and a micro-level (rule implementation). We show that participants on both levels are loosely coupled by discussing the UN Global Compact and the Ethical Trading Initiative as exemplary cases. (2) We present the positive and negative effects that loose coupling creates for these two initiatives, particularly when considering their goal to be recognized as a multi-level/multi-actor mode of governance. (3) We outline implications of our analysis to further develop the UN Global Compact and the Ethical Trading Initiative based on an explicit acknowledgement of their loosely coupled nature.

Request changes to a record

Actions (login required)

View Item