Multi-level governance may well be a far more
relevant way of understanding intergovernmental
relationships than the previous, more legalistic
approach. Judging from the articles in this special
issue, it seems clear that intergovernmental
relationships are becoming increasingly negotiated
and contextual. That having been said,
however, we need to be aware that these are longterm,
incremental changes; hence, formal rules
pertaining to intergovernmental relationships still
carry some weight.