Exploring approaches to equal and effective participation of governance actors in trans-local city food networks

This study examines how trans-local city food networks approach participation within their internal governance arrangements. For this purpose, we investigate eleven trans-local city food networks that work on up- and/or outscaling of sustainable local food system initiatives. The results show that approaches to participation vary, especially when it comes to inclusion, distributive - and collective agency. The analysis suggests that while nongovernmental actors are included in many networks, their opportunities for effective participation are limited in comparison with local policymakers. Additionally an improved cooperation and alignment between trans-local city food networks would avoid duplication of efforts. By reflecting on their own approach trans-local city food networks could actively look for other networks that can reinforce or complement their own work.