Inter-Organizationalism in International Relations: A Multilevel Framework of Analysis (original) (raw)

Rafael Biermann and Joachim A. Koops (eds.) (2016) Palgrave Handbook of Inter-Organizational Relations in World Politics

This chapter argues that Inter-organizational relations (IOR) should be understood and analysed as a multi-level phenomenon involving a variety of different actors and players at different levels of analysis. Processes, dynamics and outcomes of inter-organizational interaction occur and unfold during various moments of the inter-organizational life-cycle and can be significantly influenced by powerful member states, individual leaders as well as bureaucratic and inter-institutional dynamics. Hence, for students, researchers and practitioners of inter-organizational relations it is of prime importance to be aware of the different impact each level can have and how these levels interact in the wider context of cooperation or rivalry between organizations. This chapter provides a multi-level framework for analysing IORs. Section 1 introduces the multi-level analysis framework more generally and explains how it can be applied to the assessment of various aspects of IORs. Thereafter, section 2 outlines in more detail the different levels (international system, member state, individual, bureaucratic and inter-institutional/inter-secretariat) and their significance for understanding, describing and explaining material, ideational as well as impact-related aspects of inter-organizational relations. Finally, Section 3 offers some overall conclusions and suggestions for future research.

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