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Joining Forces or Going Solo? The Political and Economic Dynamics of Intermunicipal Cooperation

Author

Listed:
  • Germà Bel

    (Department of Econometrics, Statistics & Applied Economics, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain.)

  • Esther Pano

    (Department of Political Science and Constitutional Law. Universitat de Barcelona, Spain.)

  • Marianna Sebo

    (Department of Econometrics, Statistics & Applied Economics, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain.)

Abstract

The emergence and dynamics of inter-municipal cooperation (IMC) remain complex despite extensive research. This study examines why and when municipalities engage in IMC across multiple services. Using data from Catalonia spanning a decade, we analyse both static and dynamic factors influencing IMC adoption. Our generalized linear mixed model reveals that population size, fiscal constraints, and political participation significantly affect cooperation patterns. Economies of scale are particularly relevant for services where cooperation is frequent, while their influence diminishes as economies of density are involved. The dynamic analysis using Cox proportional hazards models indicates that high public debt and low turnout accelerate IMC adoption. These findings enhance the understanding of IMC drivers and highlight the importance of distinguishing between service-specific, organizational, and political factors that influence the existence of cooperation versus those driving its timing. Our analysis across eight services confirms that no single delivery service approach fits all scenarios.

Suggested Citation

  • Germà Bel & Esther Pano & Marianna Sebo, 2024. "Joining Forces or Going Solo? The Political and Economic Dynamics of Intermunicipal Cooperation," IREA Working Papers 202419, University of Barcelona, Research Institute of Applied Economics, revised Dec 2024.
    • Handle: RePEc:ira:wpaper:202419
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • H42 - Public Economics - - Publicly Provided Goods - - - Publicly Provided Private Goods
    • H44 - Public Economics - - Publicly Provided Goods - - - Publicly Provided Goods: Mixed Markets
    • H83 - Public Economics - - Miscellaneous Issues - - - Public Administration

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