Governance, Functions, and Traits of European Transnational Municipal Networks : An evaluation by means of German Member Cities

Abstract: As much as urban areas are centres of greenhouse gas emissions, cities hold a unique position in tackling climate change as they have legal authority over key sectors such as buildings, transportation, and urban planning. Recognising the benefit of coordinating activities on the local level, transnational municipal networks (TMNs) unite local governments across borders, providing particular services to its members. In Europe, there are several TMNs focusing on issues related to climate protection. This study examines four of these networks (ICLEI, Climate Alliance, Energy Cities, EUROCITIES) and the functions they hold available. Interviews were conducted with representatives from the networks and a sample of German cities in order to depict both their perspectives. In terms of functions provided by the TMNs as a whole, lobbying for needs and concerns of the municipalities was considered as one of the networks’ main task. Further, two forms of lobbying were identified that varied depending on the respective network: lobbying, including mayoral support; and lobbying on a technical level. In addition, interviewees valued the exchange of information and experiences that these networks enable and foster. Lastly, their role in project management was stated as an important reason for network membership. A TMN-specific analysis revealed that ICLEI’s main strength was seen in lobbying on international level for its members’ concerns by also involving its member cities’ mayors. Municipalities seemed to turn to Energy Cities and EUROCITIES with regard to lobbying concentrated at EU decision-making, project cooperation, and the exchange of information. Climate Alliance’s unique selling point – since none of the other networks was associated with this function – appeared to be in organising awareness raising events and campaigns in cooperation with its members.