A Model for a Process Approach in the Governance System for Sustainable Development

Abstract

The paper refers to the governance of “sustainable development (SD)” and aims to describe a new way of addressing it consisting of a process-based approach. In accordance with this objective, the paper presents three distinct sections: basic concepts on SD and public administration governance; an overview of publications on the SD governance framework; schematic presentation and description of the key SD governance processes, with reference to the “United Nations (UN)” governance system for SD. Applying the process approach to the UN governance for SD is a novelty, and results in a model that reflects its global picture and links with other governance levels. The proposed model is important for decision makers in multilevel governance for SD, helping to better coordinate the changes needed to build inclusive and effective governance systems. It also addresses academics and researchers, creating the framework for the future studies on SD governance processes and ways to improve them.