Paving the (Hard) Way for Regional Partnerships: Evidence from Portugal

Author (Person)
Series Title
Series Details Vol.26, No.4, September 2016, p449-474
Publication Date September 2016
ISSN 1359-7566
Content Type

Abstract:

A fundamental dilemma which troubles advocates of interinstitutional partnerships in regional development pertains to the extent to which partnerships enhance the effectiveness of governance processes and outcomes. This dilemma is particularly relevant in contexts that lack strong cohesive regional development alliances, such as the Portuguese case.

This article aims to shed light on the debate regarding the role of partnerships in regional development, drawing on a unique collaborative interinstitutional partnership. It explores the responses to complexity across the different stakeholders, as well as its effects at the formulation and implementation stages of the strategic plans devised to apply for EU funding. Findings suggest that interinstitutional partnerships induce significantly different allocative choices at the agenda-setting. However, the established partnership was unable to cope with the several obstacles that emerged during the implementation, suggesting several vulnerabilities of partnerships, which are explored. Findings suggest the need to reinforce governance mechanisms during the implementation stage.

Source Link Link to Main Source http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/13597566.2016.1219720
Subject Categories
Countries / Regions ,