The dark side of governance networks: how private actors use discursive strategies in global sport governance

Abstract

This article addresses the often-neglected political dimension of interactive processes in governance networks. It identifies six discursive strategies private actors use to manipulate the beliefs of public meta-governors: promoting favourable problem definitions and policy solutions, layering, conversion, ceremonialism, and dualism. The article argues that typical features of governance networks facilitate the use of these strategies. The empirical analysis illustrates how sport governing bodies have employed these tactics to maximize their autonomy in issues such as doping, match-fixing, and corruption by officials. It suggests that network governance may inherently favour opportunistic private actors, challenging existing assumptions towards establishing trust and consensus.