Transformation of the global governance in the cocoa sector with three characteristics: Diversification, flexibilization, and coordination

Abstract

The cocoa sector has continued its global efforts to address various environmental and social issues. This research aims to unpack characteristics of the global cocoa governance focusing on global actors, rules, and agendas through content analysis with global documents related to the cocoa sector. This research includes the 60 year time frame from 1962, the year of establishment of Intergovernmental Cocoa Organization, to 2021. The results indicate a transition in global cocoa governance with three characteristics: diversification, flexibilization, and coordination. First, the actors and agendas in the cocoa sector were diversified throughout the study period. Starting from the early 2000s, private actors emerged and actively participated in forming global cocoa agendas and suggesting solutions to cocoa-related problems. Accordingly, diverse actors have handled diverse agendas. Second, the global cocoa rules were softened and flexibilized. Until the 2000s, treaties among countries controlled the global cocoa industry. Recently-introduced soft rules from 2012 enabled diverse issues to be addressed and facilitated the participation of various actors. Third, coordination between the international and state levels was emphasized in agreements and declarations. The inclusion of varied actors and agendas necessitated aligning efforts for improving global cocoa governance.