ABSTRACT
Transnational networks of public, quasi-public and private actors are increasingly omnipresent both within the European Union and beyond. Examples of such networks include the European Financial Services Roundtable (EFR), the Network for Progressive Governance, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) and the European Farmers Coordination (CPE). Nevertheless, it is significant that although they may share the same generic label, transnational networks are functionally varied. For example, the EFR, made up of the heads of leading banks and insurers, exists to provide a strong industry voice on European policy issues relating to financial services and to support the completion of the single market in financial services. However, the Network for Progressive Governance is in essence a social democratic network originating in Europe (although it has some extensions beyond). It brings together current and former heads of state and government, ‘progressive’ politicians, thinkers and strategists from throughout Europe by providing a forum for strategic discussions. This assists the exchange of concrete measures and methods applicable to daily government so as to facilitate the shaping of the European Union, national and regional politics as well as idea and policy transfer. Furthermore, while the CEMR, comprised of national associations of towns, municipalities and regions from 30 European countries, aims to promote the particular interests of local and regional government, the CPE is a pan-European network comprised of and defending the interests of almost 20 farming and rural organizations from 11 European countries.
