Transcalar and Intersectional Advocacy in a Super-Network: The Right to a Healthy Environment Coalition

Abstract

In this article, I argue that the Right to a Healthy Environment (R2HE) coalition, a network of 1350 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and transnational advocacy networks (TANs), played an important role in the process leading to R2HE recognition. To explain in more depth how the R2HE coalition emerged and functioned, I conceptualize it as a ‘super-network’. The main argument presented here is that super-networks can be understood as a mobilization structure above individual TANs (using the Latin word ‘super’ for above). They emerge when brokering entrepreneurs connect collaborative TANs and NGOs from different policy fields. Super-networks apply intersectional and transcalar tactics, and increase their power vis-à-vis state actors to impact decision-making in international forums. Empirically, this paper is based on a case study of the R2HE coalition, building on a content analysis of primary documents, expert interviews with non-governmental key players in the coalition and with UN representatives, as well as a focus group discussion with UN and NGOs/TAN representatives.