The institutionalization of paradiplomacy in the subnational governments of the province of Lima in the years 2023-2024

Abstract

This article addresses the growing prominence of subnational governments in foreign policy, a phenomenon known as paradiplomacy. Over the past decade, these actors have played an autonomous role in global issues such as climate change, migration, trade, and investment, areas traditionally dominated by nation-states. The study examines how paradiplomacy becomes institutionalized, highlighting key factors such as the establishment of international affairs departments and participation in international events and networks. Furthermore, it identifies three essential dimensions for the effective internationalization of subnational governments: territorial, relational, and technical-administrative. These dimensions enable the evaluation of local governments’ capacity to implement paradiplomatic strategies, considering factors such as the socioeconomic and political environment, organizational structure, and available resources. Although studies on this phenomenon in Peru are limited, the article aims to fill this gap and contribute to the analysis of paradiplomacy in Latin America.