Governing Complex City-Regions in the Twenty-First Century

This book examines the challenges of governance in complex urban regions, particularly within the BRICS nations, offering fresh perspectives on collective action and institutional fragmentation.

The book Governing Complex City-Regions in the Twenty-First Century delves into the intricate evolution of regional and metropolitan governance, highlighting how various urban agents confront the challenges of collective action in a landscape characterized by fragmented institutions. In an era where decision-making is influenced by multiple centers, the complexity of urban change has become increasingly disorienting. As cities transform into sprawling urban agglomerations, often referred to as city-regions, scholars and practitioners alike struggle to find the right frameworks to navigate these contemporary urban dynamics.

The author draws on case studies from the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—placing his analysis within the context of each country's unique historical and political landscape. This approach broadens the discussion of city-region governance, revealing insights and outcomes that may not be visible in the more established urban environments of Western Europe and North America, which have traditionally dominated the literature. By examining these diverse contexts, the book enriches the understanding of governance processes in rapidly changing urban settings.

Intended for a wide audience that includes students, academics, and professionals, Governing Complex City-Regions in the Twenty-First Century critiques the conventional 'best practice' model of governance. It emphasizes that governance strategies often emerge organically from the varied intentions and actions of numerous actors operating within different political cultures. While the book does not provide straightforward solutions to the complexities of urban governance, it underscores the importance of comparative studies in fostering innovative ideas and practices that could enhance governance in South Africa and beyond.