The Institutionalization of Inter-Municipal Arrangements in Europe: Findings from the Unusual Suspects

Abstract

Research on Inter-Municipal Cooperation (IMC) in Europe suffers from a deficit of international comparative studies. This article presents an in-depth analysis of the level of institutionalization of IMC arrangements, claiming its relevance for future research and suggesting a set of post-typological dimensions needed for its characterization. It ends with a recommendation of new research agendas. In addition to bringing up-to date information, it aims at contributing with new knowledge by including countries not involved in previous comparative research and new ‘after crisis’ data. The research methodology also allowed the analysis of individual institutions.

Keywords

• inter-municipal cooperation
• institutionalization
• local government
• europe