Multi-Akteurs-Partnerschaften Success Factor 3 Steering & Resources

Multi-stakeholder partnerships are generally complex cooperation systems which call for a great deal of coordination and process management. Steering a MAP therefore requires a well-equipped secretariat –from the operational phase at the latest – with at least one person responsible solely for coordination and process management. While the size and functions of the secretariat may vary depending on the partnership, it is essential that this operates neutrally. Only then can internal and external credibility be established.

Cooperation on equal terms among all partners is a key part of multi-stakeholder partnerships. In practice, this means establishing structures that guarantee access to all decision-making processes for all stakeholders. In order for steering in a MAP to function through processes of negotiation, these must take place on equal terms. All partners must therefore have at their disposal the relevant information for decision-making. This approach towards inclusive and transparent governance ensures legitimacy, trust, effectiveness and impact.

Although multi-stakeholder partnerships offer enormous potential to address complex challenges, they may involve significant use of resources –in terms of time and human and financial resources. The volume and type of resources required by a multi-stakeholder partnership depends to a large extent on its objectives and scope. At the same time, many of the success factors listed here – such as steering, management and monitoring – can be calculated as cost items. Frequent checks should be carried out to ensure that the available budget is sufficient to cover the activities and ambitions of the partnership. Ideally, the funding for a partnership should not come primarily from just one source as this can lead to over-dependence and power imbalances. In each case, any expectations that go hand in hand with financial support must be made transparent from the outset. Consideration should be given not only to the finance required, but also to the time and human resources needed. The organisations involved should look at whether or not their operational capacity matches the demands of their respective roles within the partnership. The provision of resources is important as a means of establishing trust, mutual respect and peer-to-peer cooperation; it also creates stability and continuity.