ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the nature of transnational actors (TNAs) in contemporary international relations. Sometimes also referred to as non-state actors, TNAs represent one of the more significant changes to the international landscape in the twenty-first century. In the past decade alone, these groups – which are continually growing in both number and influence – have been at the centre of major wars, regional conflicts and civil strife; a significant reason behind the global economic crisis and a crucial player in its recovery; instrumental in fostering popular uprisings against tyranny as well as in the efforts to put them down; and a critical part of global efforts to tackle global problems such as disease, poverty, climate change and human rights abuse, just to name a few.
The wide array of transnational actors is explained, including the relative place of each type in the international system and differing views on their definition, scope and impact. Among the types of TNAs discussed are civil service organizations, international nongovernmental organizations, transnational advocacy networks and epistemic communities, multinational/transnational corporations, grassroots organizations and grassroots support organizations, transnational religious movements, non-state nationalist groups and diasporas, transnational criminal organizations, terrorist organizations and insurgent groups. Common characteristics of these different types are discussed, including considerations of size, geographic reach, organizational purpose, funding and internal structure.
Transnational actors engage in a range of activities to reach their goals, and these are explained. These activities include direct action, lobbying, raising issue awareness and fundraising. The ways in which groups differ in employing these activities is explored. Through these activities, TNAs have a significant impact on global affairs, and this impact is examined in more depth with regard to issue advocacy, international regimes, democratization efforts around the world, the struggle for human rights and political liberties, globalization and the use of soft power. This rise in relevance and in relative influence has posed a number of challenges for the current Westphalian system, two of which are examined in detail. First, the traditional concept of state sovereignty seems to be challenged by notions of responsible sovereignty and the role of international institutions on the world stage. Even small groups of people are finding ways to challenge the governments that repress them, and there is significant pressure for states and international government organizations to intervene to help those whose own governments will not. Second, as transnational actors continue to gain prominence in global affairs, how should they be viewed with regard to legitimacy, accountability and credibility? These challenges show no signs of abating, and so must be addressed as the international system moves forward. Finally, the debate over the current influence of transnational actors is explored, and their prospects for increased power and influence in the future is addressed.
