'Bundled' Transgovernmental Networks in North America

Abstract

This article identifies the structure and function of what we refer to as “bundled” transgovernmental networks. Bundled arrangements gather the activities of multiple transgovernmental networks under the auspices of a multi-lateral national executive-driven initiative, providing increased executive control over transgovernmental network activities. The concept of bundling responds to debates regarding the role of the central authorities in structuring the rules and context of transnational network interaction, and the evolving configuration between central authorities and decentralized structures in transnational governance arrangements. Drawing on the form of network cooperation found in the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America and the Canada-U.S. Regulatory Cooperation Council, we argue that bundling has the potential to address identified accountability, coordination and efficacy concerns associated with transgovernmental networks. At the same time, we also argue that it will also result in decreased network autonomy, which has implications for the ability of network to arrive at innovative cooperative solutions.