Multi-level and polycentric governance: effective policymaking for shipping

Abstract

Problems of shipping policy jurisdiction between international, supra-national and national levels have been identified at an increasing rate in recent years, and in particular with respect to the maritime sector in the European Union. These problems reflect inadequacies in the shipping policy-making processes which are currently adopted and which derive from an institutional framework dating from the early twentieth century, centred upon the state as the main actor. Revised frameworks including those of ‘polycentric governance’ and ‘multi-level governance’ which are more sensitive to the demands and interests of stakeholders in the maritime industry urgently need to be considered. Suggestions for improvements in the maritime policy-making framework are put forward and recommendations put forward for further development by policy-makers in the maritime sector at all jurisdictional levels.