'All cities are equal, but some are more equal than others'. Policy mobility and asymmetric relations in inter-urban networks for sustainability. Issue 2 (4th May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mocca, Elisabetta
• Is Part Of: International journal of urban sustainable development. Volume 10:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 139
• Page End: 153
• Publication Date: 2018-05-04
• Subjects: Transnational municipalism -- urban policy mobilities -- local governments -- urban sustainability -- Europe; City planning -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; Sustainable development -- Periodicals; City planning -- Environmental aspects; Sustainable development; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 307.341605
• DOI: 10.1080/19463138.2018.1487444
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1946-3138

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Knowledge sharing is deemed an important function of transnational municipal networks. However, in the literature on these organisations, a critical discussion of the implications of this process is scant. This article unpacks the mechanisms regulating learning, and examines the cognitive and relational dynamics of knowledge exchange within socio-ecological urban networks. By analysing the experience of a small group of European post-industrial second cities in socio-ecological urban networks, this article shows that network members exchange ideas and practices to tackle urban regeneration issues. The data suggest that, despite touted as a peer-to-peer practice, knowledge sharing reinforces asymmetrical relationships among network members, enabling the 'soft domination' of more advanced cities over less successful ones.