Global Norms: Creation, Diffusion, and Limits

This report explores the journey of norms in development—from emergence to implementation

Abstract

Norms in development are typically established at the global level to solve complex development challenges on the ground. These norms are standards of expected behavior about how things ought to be conducted and are deemed crucial for societies to flourish. Global norms, however, often fail to successfully diffuse to local contexts.

This report explores the journey of norms in development—from emergence to implementation. Specifically, it seeks to identify effective strategies for norms to take root and make part of the global and domestic agendas and limits. It also identifies challenges to the implementation of norms and some possible strategies and tools to overcome these challenges. The report draws from various global policy advocacy campaigns with a particular focus on governance; it also includes notable historic campaigns, such as Britain’s antislavery campaign.

Citation

CommGAP Discussion Papers, Communication for Governance and Accountability Program (CommGAP), World Bank, Washington DC, USA. 29 pp.

Global Norms: Creation, Diffusion, and Limits

Published 1 January 2011