The logic of appropriateness of unity in diversity: the institutionalization of a city network in global governance

Abstract

ABSTRACT Conceptualizing city networks as institutionalized organizations allows unveiling the internal dynamics beneath their increasing dynamism in global politics. The article taps into the insightful yet uncharted theoretical framework of sociological institutionalism to analyze United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG). The logic of appropriateness of unity in diversity drives the process of institutionalization of UCLG, constructing the common and unifying identity of the membership, while simultaneously controlling the potential multiple struggles deriving from the myriad of members’ self-interests in an organization fraught with diversity. The process of identity construction of UCLG members as global policy actors revolves around the legitimacy that stems from their governmental nature, democratic mandate, and proximity to their communities. Yet the call to unity in diversity cannot be upheld without the definition and implementation of rules that organize the interactions among members.