ABSTRACT
Various observers have suggested that partnerships are part of a phenomenon that has attracted growing attention among researchers and policy-makers, known as 'global public policy networks'. This chapter suggests that the Type II outcomes of the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) process should be analysed and interpreted in the conceptual framework as global public policy networks. The idea that partnerships are simple, technocratic ‘production mechanisms’ suitable to addressing the implementation crisis in global environmental governance is misguided. Both implementation of solutions and development of solutions through partnerships require sustained involvement and monitoring by all parties. Partnerships are by definition volatile constructs that require much attention and careful management. That is why they do not offer an easy ride. But the difficulties are well worth the risk, given the daunting challenges of a complex world with an everexpanding multiplicity of actors, interests and issues that need to be resolved.
