Small states and a more nuanced understanding of central government coordination

Abstract

This article discusses which important answers small states offer to the question of central government coordination. It identifies a gap in the mainstream literature, which focuses predominantly on larger countries, and emphasizes formal coordination mechanisms and coordination problems. By reviewing recent studies on government coordination in various small states, the article explores how coordination practices vary in smaller states: first, compared to larger states, they often experience lower coordination needs. Secondly, less complex government structures and closer personal relations facilitate coordination through informal mechanisms. This contribution challenges the universality of coordination problems and highlights small states’ unique practices that offer valuable insights into efficient coordination strategies adaptable by larger governments. Future research could explore how size intersects with other factors, such as development and colonial legacies, in shaping coordination practices.