Governance of cross-border innovation systems: a case study on the new research and innovation arrangement of the triple border region (Foz do Iguaçu, Ciudad del Este and Puerto Iguazú)

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze, from the perspective of the Regional System of Cross-border Innovation (SRIT) governance, the structure and actions of the Trinational NAPI for the development of research and innovation on the triple frontier. For this, it was first necessary to identify the characteristics (geographical scale, structural patterns and interactions, structure and organizational processes, decision making, actors, themes and legal status) of the Trinational NAPI for research and innovation in the region of the triple frontier; to analyze the stage of integration from the perspective of the SRIT and also suggest ways to do so, to consolidate itself as a cross-border governance structure for the development of research and innovation in the triple border region. To achieve the objectives desired, a qualitative case study of exploratory nature was made, based on categories of analysis obtained in theoretical survey and empirical evidence obtained in documents, interviews and participant observation. From this, it was identified that the Trinational NAPI is an arrangement of research and innovation for the development of the region of the triple border between Foz do Iguaçu, Ciudad del Este and Puerto Iguazú, through a partnership between Brazil and France, together with Argentina and Paraguay, with financing from the Araucária Foundation, linked to the government of Paraná, Brazil. Three dimensions were identified as a mode of governance: institutional, technical-institutional and technical-operational. It is concluded that the Trinational NAPI is at the semi-integrated stage in relation to the different levels of cross-border international interaction.

Keywords:
regional development; innovation systems; borders; cross-border cooperation