Multistakeholder partnerships after a decade of sustainable development goals: synergies, effectiveness, legitimacy and the future of sustainability governance

The study shows that MSPs can create spaces for dialogue, joint learning and coordinated solutions, but their impact cannot be taken for granted. Clear goals, fair opportunities for participation, transparent decision-making and reliable support are among the factors that matter. The research also highlights that MSPs cannot replace political institutions or international cooperation, but can complement them. These findings offer practical insights for those looking to strengthen and develop MSPs so they can work more effectively together and contribute to sustainable development.

The article is part of a special issue of the journal International Environmental Agreements: Politics, Law and Economics, which features a total of eleven articles on MAPs and multistakeholderism in the context of the SDGs.