Conclusion

Abstract

This book has dealt with the provision of transnational common goods. Inevitably, transnational or global common goods have to be provided by international multi-level systems of governance. International multi-level systems are not states. In classical public goods theory this poses a particular challenge. In this view public goods have to be provided by the state, as the market is not capable of efficient public goods provision. The problem of common goods provision is equated with the strategic structure of a prisoners’ dilemma. To resolve this dilemma, a state-like structure is necessary that is able to monitor and sanction free riders.