ABSTRACT
Partnerships are seen as a crucial means to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Various terms have been used to describe and study partnerships such as collaborations, networks, alliances, coalitions, cross-sectoral initiatives and multi-stakeholder platforms. Collaborations between state and non-state actors through partnerships are understood as an alternative or hybrid form of governance for sustainable development. Partnerships have been criticized for falling short in their impacts and reinforcing unequal power relations. Unlocking their full potential requires creating an enabling environment that provides partnerships with the necessary resources and coordination to generate the expected synergies.
