Navigating Transformative Policy and Paradigms: Insights from the 2023 Transformations Conference

By: Sofia Maniatakou, Nathalie Sänger, Jorge Martín Motta, Simone Sandholz, Laura Arévalos

Abstract

The "Transformative Policy & Paradigms" online panel, part of the 2023 Transformations Conference, explored the roles of large-scale actor coalitions in sustainability transformations and the development of a toolbox for building transformative coalitions in Latin America. The panel highlighted the significance of co-designing and co-creating transformative processes, emphasizing the importance of inclusive participation and addressing power asymmetries.

Introduction

The 2023 Transformations Conference hosted an online panel titled "Transformative Policy & Paradigms," bringing together experts to discuss the dynamics of large-scale actor coalitions and the creation of tools for fostering transformative coalitions in urban settings.

Presentation Summaries

1. Large-Scale Actor Coalitions for Sustainability Transformations

   • Presenter: Sofia Maniatakou

   • Focus: This presentation explored how coalitions comprising influential actors like transnational corporations and international organizations can support sustainability transformations. Maniatakou presented preliminary findings from five case studies in the food and finance sectors, emphasizing the dynamic nature of transformative capacities and the risks of power imbalances in these coalitions.

2. Co-Creating a Toolbox for Transformative Coalitions in Latin America

   • Presenters: Nathalie Sänger, Jorge Martín Motta, Laura Arévalos

   • Focus: This segment introduced the “Transformative Urban Labs” project, aimed at fostering decarbonization and social justice in five Latin American cities. The team discussed the development of a toolbox of best practices, informed by the evaluation of 200 tools, to support coalition building and sustainability.

Panel Discussion: Collaborative Challenges and Solutions

The panel discussion centered on achieving effective collaboration and maintaining engagement in sustainability partnerships. Laura Arévalos shared experiences from the Buenos Aires Urban Lab, highlighting the significance of participatory processes in making residents aware of the interconnectedness between climate change and daily life challenges. The panel underscored the importance of inclusive stakeholder participation in co-designing transformational processes, noting that partnerships play varying roles across different phases and scales.

Key Insights

1. The Setup of Partnerships is Crucial

   • The initial setup of a partnership significantly influences its activities and long-term sustainability. For instance, partnerships with specific timeframes and goals tend to approach their objectives differently from those focusing on learning and adaptation.

2. The Power of Co-Design and Co-Production

   • Engaging stakeholders from the onset is essential for the sustainability and effectiveness of coalitions. Active participation fosters engagement and strengthens the coalition's capacity to meet its objectives.

Conclusion

The session underscored the common challenge faced by partnerships: striving for transformations that are socially just and ecologically regenerative. The discussions leaned towards the aspect of justice, emphasizing that representation alone is not enough for sustainable coalitions. Mechanisms that facilitate participation, collective ownership, and address power asymmetries are crucial for fostering inclusive transformative processes, especially beyond the lifespan of external funding.