Policy Coherence in Multi-Level Governance and Its Influence on the Enforcement of Environmental Protection Laws in Brazil

Abstract

Purpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the policy coherence in multi-level governance and its influence on the enforcement of environmental protection laws. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Policy coherence in multi-level governance significantly enhances the enforcement of environmental protection laws by improving coordination, reducing regulatory conflicts, and clarifying enforcement responsibilities across national, regional, and local levels. Jurisdictions with aligned policies record higher compliance rates, more consistent enforcement actions, and better environmental outcomes compared to fragmented governance systems. Conversely, weak policy coherence undermines accountability, leads to uneven enforcement, and limits the effectiveness of environmental protection efforts. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Multi-level governance theory, institutional theory & policy integration theory may be used to anchor future studies on the policy coherence in multi-level governance and its influence on the enforcement of environmental protection laws. Practically, environmental enforcement agencies should strengthen intergovernmental coordination mechanisms. From a policy perspective, governments should adopt integrated environmental policy frameworks.