Global public policy networks lessons learned and challenges ahead

This paper identifies an 'ongoing transition to a broader notion of networked governance involving not only governments and international organisations but also businesses and nongovernmental organisations'. This transition is taking place in the context of a broader phenomenon that has emerged over the past decade. In response to a wide range of contemporary challenges (such as: protecting the environment; fighting diseases such as malaria and HIV/AIDS; implementing labour standards and combating corruption), participants from civil society, business, international organisations, and national governments are joining forces in an innovative form of governance: Global Public Policy Networks (GPPNs).

The authors go on to identify three types of GPPN: 'As they have developed so far, the networks fulfil three primary functions. Some are negotiation platforms that facilitate the setting of global standards and regulations. Others focus on coordinating resources and correcting market failures. Still others focus on implementing existing international treaties.' Finally, they list three key ways in which GPPNs should strive to become more effective:

• To mainstream cross-sectoral networking by promoting organisational change.
  
• To strengthen network accountability.
  
• To build capacity through a learning forum.