Governance network theory re-examined: Implications of the research findings of the water and sanitation sector governance network of the municipality of tela, honduras

Abstract

A water and sanitation sector governance network was researched to determine the social and governance drivers present in the case study area. This paper presents evidence of these drivers that underpin the institutional theoretical approach to the study of governance networks. Evidence suggests that the social drivers calculation and culture are present in the case study area; likewise, the governance drivers conflict and coordination are also present. The findings also suggest that indifference, as a form of societal governance, is also present in the research site and is a driver unexplored in the existing governance network theoretical framework. Consequently, it is suggested that network governance theory could be strengthened by the incorporation of this form of societal governance. Researchers wishing to explore new frontiers can explore the driver indifference in governance network theory, as its negative impacts likely undermine the efficiency and general operations of governance networks, especially in regions or countries where patronage politics has a predatory control over a majority of resources.