The thesis identifies four modes of action and cooperation of transnational networks of GROs by taking the Tanzania Urban Poor Federation (TUPF), a sub-network of Shack Slum Dweller International (SDI), as an example. Based on the understanding of “interpretive network analysis” (Schindler 2006: pp. 100-101), qualitative and quantitative methodologies of data collection and analysis (expert interviews, member survey, on-site visits of projects, review of TUPF and SDI reports) have been applied in the course of field research. Analysis took place based on a set of criteria regarding the current state of knowledge of typologies, structures, processes, dynamics and preconditions for stable, effective networks. Furthermore, mechanisms for network governance are also taken into account. The selected cases represent a range of issues, applied instruments, different modes of cooperation and scopes of action. Based on the set of criteria, the examination is intended to address questions concerning the relevance of local embeddedness and the capability of the local communities of the TUPF to enter into cross-sectoral and cross-level cooperation. Based on these insights, effects for the scope of action, the empowerment of the actors involved and the development of marginalized settlements are indentified. The case-study research on the basis of the TUPF and SDI verifies the potential of networks for the dissemination of knowledge and the creation of social capital and multidimensional cooperation. However, the analysed modes of action and cooperation develop different degrees of capacities regarding these issues. In this context, the assumed interrelation between the degree of extension of the scope of action and the capability to create multidimensional cooperation in the course of networking activities becomes clear. The cases of the TUPF and SDI show that transnational networks of GROs are able to develop cooperation structures and development strategies involving features of integrated approaches which are spatially and socially embedded in local communities and also benefit from transnational and crosssectoral cooperation. The aspects highlighted above represent a range of potentials and preconditions which turned out to be relevant and important for the activities and processes of local communities within the network. These final results are intended to provide guidance for the development of beneficial structures by governmental actors and development organizations. Furthermore, they should be integrated into a reconsideration of cooperation strategies in the course of urban management processes and development approaches to reduce urban poverty.

The thesis identifies four modes of action and cooperation of transnational networks of GROs by taking the Tanzania Urban Poor Federation (TUPF), a sub-network of Shack Slum Dweller International (SDI), as an example. Based on the understanding of “interpretive network analysis” (Schindler 2006: pp. 100-101), qualitative and quantitative methodologies of data collection and analysis (expert interviews, member survey, on-site visits of projects, review of TUPF and SDI reports) have been applied in the course of field research. Analysis took place based on a set of criteria regarding the current state of knowledge of typologies, structures, processes, dynamics and preconditions for stable, effective networks. Furthermore, mechanisms for network governance are also taken into account. The selected cases represent a range of issues, applied instruments, different modes of cooperation and scopes of action. Based on the set of criteria, the examination is intended to address questions concerning the relevance of local embeddedness and the capability of the local communities of the TUPF to enter into cross-sectoral and cross-level cooperation. Based on these insights, effects for the scope of action, the empowerment of the actors involved and the development of marginalized settlements are indentified. The case-study research on the basis of the TUPF and SDI verifies the potential of networks for the dissemination of knowledge and the creation of social capital and multidimensional cooperation. However, the analysed modes of action and cooperation develop different degrees of capacities regarding these issues. In this context, the assumed interrelation between the degree of extension of the scope of action and the capability to create multidimensional cooperation in the course of networking activities becomes clear. The cases of the TUPF and SDI show that transnational networks of GROs are able to develop cooperation structures and development strategies involving features of integrated approaches which are spatially and socially embedded in local communities and also benefit from transnational and crosssectoral cooperation. The aspects highlighted above represent a range of potentials and preconditions which turned out to be relevant and important for the activities and processes of local communities within the network. These final results are intended to provide guidance for the development of beneficial structures by governmental actors and development organizations. Furthermore, they should be integrated into a reconsideration of cooperation strategies in the course of urban management processes and development approaches to reduce urban poverty.