The Role of Power Dynamics in Cross-Sector Partnerships for Sustainable Socio-Ecological System Transformation

Sharon L. O’Sullivan () and Daina Mazutis
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Sharon L. O’Sullivan: Telfer School of Management, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
Daina Mazutis: Telfer School of Management, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 16, 1-23

Abstract: This study aims to identify how power dynamics influence multi-stakeholder cross-sector partnership (CSP) processes for socio-ecological system (SES) transformation. We draw on a four dimensional framework of power (resource, decision-making, meaning-making and systemic) to analyze an in-depth, qualitative case study of a CSP that failed to progress much beyond the initial formation and strategic plan formulation stages of the CSP process. We uncover how the initial positioning of the CSP triggered diverse instances of power use (and power oversight) that had a dampening effect on the progress of this SES transformation initiative. Specifically, we reveal the paradoxical pitfalls of an overly collaborative approach during the early stages of a CSP initiative, and, in so doing, advance scholarship on CSPs as well as managing socio-ecological system transformation.

Keywords: power; cross-sector partnerships; sustainability; socio-ecological systems transformation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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