Whose Norms Prevail? Policy Networks, International Organizations and “Sustainable Forest Management”

This article investigates the origin of international norms, arguing that one pathwayis via the strategic action of sector-specific policy networks. Evidence is adducedfrom an examination of the contested norm of sustainable forest management(SFM). It is argued that a Canadian forestry policy network, under pressureinternally and externally to demonstrate its environmental and social credentials,promoted an economistic SFM norm in regional negotiations known as theMontreal Process. The article outlines the policy network approach, applies it tothe Canadian forest sector, and analyzes how a policy network centered in theCanadian Forest Service and the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers workedto have the networks preferred conception of SFM internationally endorsed. Thearticle highlights the importance of investigating which social actors championwhich international norms and encourages reflexive policymaking by calling intoquestion the degree to which international norms actually reflect a genuine globalconsensus.