Opening up to civil society: access, participation, and impact

The involvement of civil society actors in the governance of IOs has been the subject of extensive research. Whereas early contributions were single or comparative case studies, large-N studies based on newly created databases have provided broader insights. Three aspects have been in focus. To be granted access to the deliberations of IOs is a first, necessary step of civil society involvement. Researchers have identified, and sought to explain, patterns of access. Even if granted access, far from all civil society actors choose active participation. What patterns of participation and non-participation have been found, and how can these be accounted for? Thirdly, researchers have addressed questions concerning the impact of civil society involvement. Has it contributed to the democratization, effectiveness and legitimacy of IOs? The picture emerging from extant research is one of considerable variation along several dimensions, as far as both empirical patterns and suggested explanations are concerned.