ABSTRACT
With states transferring competencies to the supranational and international level, international organizations (IOs) have acquired powers to supervise and enforce common rules. While some have been delegated relatively ‘hard’ competencies to oversee implementation, others have only been granted ‘soft’ powers. They may bark but not bite. Despite the increasing significance of IOs within implementation processes, we still know relatively little about how they in fact use their power, which instruments they employ or what types of policies they pursue to ensure the transposition of international agreements or norms. What is the difference between IOs that possess ‘teeth’ and those that do not? If the growing numbers of international rules are to be effective, there is a need to learn more about the mechanisms that can ensure that member states follow through on their commitments.
