Cities as International Actors [electronic resource] : Urban and Regional Governance Beyond the Nation State /
Herrschel, Tassilo.author.
Newman, Peter.author.
This book explores the growing role of cities and regions as sub-national actors in shaping global governance. Far from being merely carried along by global forces, cities have become active players in making and maintaining the networks and connections that give shape to contemporary globalization. Exploring examples from Europe, North America and beyond, the authors reconcile the two separate, yet complimentary, theoretical and analytical lenses adopted by Urban Studies and International Relations, as they address the nature of 'cities' and 'internationality'. The authors challenge academic debate that is reluctant to cross disciplinary boundaries and thus offer more relevant answers to the new phenomenon of international city action, and how it weakens the traditional prerogative of the state as primary actor in the international realm. Conclusions focus on how this new internationality opens opportunities for cities and regions but also contains potential pitfalls that can constrain policy options and challenge the legitimacy of policy making at all scales.
Includes bibliographical references and index.
Chapter 1. Cities Joining States as International Actors -- Chapter 2. Cities in the Global Area - From Connectors to Actors. The Questions of Space and Territory -- Chapter 3. Cities and the Changing Nature of International Governance -- Chapter 4. Expansion and Activities of Networks of Sub-National Governments -- Chapter 5. Individual Initiatives by Cities in Europe -- Chapter 6. Cities and Internationality in North America and Beyond -- Chapter 7. Conclusions.
This book explores the growing role of cities and regions as sub-national actors in shaping global governance. Far from being merely carried along by global forces, cities have become active players in making and maintaining the networks and connections that give shape to contemporary globalization. Exploring examples from Europe, North America and beyond, the authors reconcile the two separate, yet complimentary, theoretical and analytical lenses adopted by Urban Studies and International Relations, as they address the nature of 'cities' and 'internationality'. The authors challenge academic debate that is reluctant to cross disciplinary boundaries and thus offer more relevant answers to the new phenomenon of international city action, and how it weakens the traditional prerogative of the state as primary actor in the international realm. Conclusions focus on how this new internationality opens opportunities for cities and regions but also contains potential pitfalls that can constrain policy options and challenge the legitimacy of policy making at all scales.
Public policy.
Sociology, Urban.
International organization.
Globalization.
Political sociology.
Public Policy.
Urban Studies/Sociology.
International Organization.
Globalization.
Political Sociology.