Information flows and social capital through linkages: the effectiveness of the CLRTAP network

Abstract

This paper examines the effectiveness of the convention on long-range transboundary air pollution (CLRTAP) from a network perspective. The authors claim, contrary to most existing research, that we must consider all links and connections that a regime creates among its members for determining whether and how it influences states toward ‘greener’ environmental behavior. To this extent, the paper advances two arguments. First, parties more central to the CLRTAP network can rely on and signal mutual interests, shared preferences, and decreased uncertainty with all actors involved. In turn, a central position embodies social capital, which facilitates that a well-connected state is ceteris paribus more likely to cooperate with the regime. Second, if other countries in the network do not cooperate, however, it is likely that the positive effect stemming from social capital disappears and that a state will defect even if it has a central position in the network. The authors’ empirical analysis provides support for the theory and may have important implications for studies on regime effectiveness and on networks in general.