Description
Book SynopsisConcerns about the position and function of nation-states in the international arena have led to a growing interest in the role of cities in international relations. This timely book advances the argument that cities are becoming active and informal actors in international law-making, indicating the emergence of a ‘third generation’ of multi-level governance.
Expansive in scope, the book investigates various areas of city cooperation such as the economy, migration, security, sustainable development, ecology, and the position of cities in international law. Interviews conducted with the official representatives of several cities and international institutions, including UN-Habitat, the EU Committee of the Regions, and the Congress for Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, offer key insights into the most pressing urban issues of the 21st century. Examining the latest information on the international activities of cities, this engaging book explores the possibility that cities may soon reach the level of international subjects, capable of both implementing and creating international law.
Contributing to the under-represented literature on the evolving function of cities in the modern world, this prescient book will be of interest to academics and students of urban studies, international relations, political science, and international law. City authorities dealing with international cooperation will benefit from its consideration of further development opportunities.
Trade Review‘Cities have increasingly captured the imagination of international scholars and practitioners. This “rise” to fame is much talked about, but the international legal practicalities often remain overlooked and in need of tangible insights. Taking us on a much welcome empirical tour between security, climate, innovation, and migration, The Role of Cities in International Relations
does just that for European cities, with a timely intervention rooted in clear research material – a useful read for lawyers and legal, as much as IR, scholars alike!’ -- Michele Acuto, University of Melbourne, Australia
‘Built on substantial empirical enquiry, the book represents a systematic attempt to develop a theoretical framework for understanding the role of cities in international relations, illustrated in multiple policy domains and from various disciplinary angles. It fills an important gap in the literature.’ -- Alistair Cole, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
Table of ContentsContents: 1. Introduction to The Role of Cities in International Relations 2. The position of cities in international relations and international law 3. Bilateral and multilateral diplomacy between cities and its impact 4. European cities and migration policy 5. European cities: sustainable development and environmental challenges 6. European cities and security 7. European ‘sharing cities’: new solutions for local economies and transport 8. Conclusion to The Role of Cities in International Relations Appendix: list of interviews/written answers (in chronological order) Index
