Non-State Actors in International Relations: The Case of Germany
Résumé
This book looks at the interaction between non-state actors and their state, in this case Germany, in terms of support, supplement and resource. It uses Germany as an instructive case study from which to draw out wider lessons. Germany has a vibrant civil society, numerous non-state actors, some of which are engaged in transnational processes, and a government that relies heavily on these actors, and thus provides a classic example of the role that non-state actors can play. Many non-state actors act in close cooperation with the German state to supplement or sustain government policies, especially companies, industry bodies, experts, NGOs, churches, local and regional networks and political groups. The actors are analyzed in their role as cooperating, and in many ways strengthening, the role and influence of Germany abroad and on the international stage, rather than competing with it.