Policy Network Ties in the Dynamic Process of Environmental Conflict Resolution: Uncovering the Evolution of Environmental Governance

This book investigates the emergence and evolution of self-organizing policy networks in networked settings, particularly in the context of environmental conflict resolution. It aims to understand how policy stakeholders cope strategically with collective action or environmental conflict resolution, utilize or maintain formal and informal policy networks, and what motivates them to engage or be involved in collaborative or conflictual networks. The book consists of four studies that examine the form of policy networks, the main policy actors and structural characteristics of network governance evolution, the role of policy tie formality in the evolution of multiplex ties, and the relationships between patterns of interactions and strategic behaviors.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 124 pages
Publication date: 19 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Extensive research has been conducted on environmental conflict management in networked settings and the design of policy networks, yet the emergence and evolution of self-organizing policy networks remain largely unexplored. Particularly misunderstood is the issue of how the diverse motivations or incentives of competing policy actors in conflictual situations shape their interactions and structures. This book aims to address the following research questions: How do policy stakeholders strategically navigate collective action or environmental conflict resolution? How do they utilize or maintain formal and informal policy networks to effectively address problems? What motivates them to engage or participate in collaborative or conflictual networks? What influences their networking practices or decisions regarding partner selection for conflict resolution?

This book comprises four studies. The first study focuses on examining the formation of policy networks by delving into how they emerge and evolve at the micro-level to tackle collective action dilemmas prevalent in decentralized and democratized policy decision-making processes, particularly in the realm of environmental conflict resolution. The second study aims to explore the primary policy actors and structural characteristics of network governance evolution in the dynamic process of environmental conflict resolution. The third study highlights the role of policy tie formality in the evolution of multiplex ties in the environmental conflict resolution process. The fourth study demonstrates the relationships between patterns of interactions among policy actors and their modified and adjusted strategies.

Understanding the dynamics of self-organizing policy networks is crucial as they play a significant role in shaping public policy outcomes. By exploring the factors that influence policy stakeholder behavior, this book contributes to the existing literature on environmental conflict management and policy network design. It provides valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners interested in improving the effectiveness of environmental conflict resolution and promoting sustainable policy outcomes.

Weight: 238g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030708573
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021