Environmental governance by transnational municipal networks: The case of Indonesian cities

Abstract

Global environmental governance has developed a multi-layer of government from the global to the local. Transnational Municipal Networks (TMNs) are a newly emerging form of organization within global environmental governance. The TMNs are an institutional mechanism to enhance how local governments address environmental problems. Previous empirical research on these networks focused on the European context. There is little research about TMNs conducted in a country undergoing government reform and decentralization. Decentralization seeks to create an effective system of governance in which local governments attain greater authority. Here, we examine the impact of TMNs in Southeast Asia, particularly in the cities of Yogyakarta and Wakatobi in Indonesia. Referring to the TMNs and decentralization arrangements, we analyze the role of TMNs in enabling cities to play a significant role in establishing environmental policy in their region. We conclude that if local governments maximize the role of the TMNs in environmental policy, the local government will contribute to the development of a sustainable society agenda and contribute more to the state fulfilling its national environmental goals and international commitments.