Networks of IGOs: Quality of connections that link IGO-IGO and IGO-INGO

International Organizations have been considered as instruments of countries. However, we must realize that such international organizations are gaining influence and sometimes more autonomy to act independently. Thus, this paper provides a theoretical approach on the interorganizational connections that exist amongst international organizations. On one hand, this paper incorporates functionalist as well as network theory in order to frame an unexplored wide system; providing possible answers on why international organizations link to each other, how such linkages evolve, the strength of linkages between international organizations, as well as the important role that epistemic communities play in a network of international organizations. On the other hand, this paper will also provide us with quantitative analysis derived from a data set of IGOs and their linkages to other IGOs and NGOs. Such analysis will explore different available variables such as the nature of the IGOs, or their linkage strength to other international organizations. Moreover, this dataset clearly leads us to mention the importance of linking pin organizations in a network theory. Additionally, by showing a couple of examples of specific linkages, this study allows us to have a visual grasp of how international organizations create an interorganizational network. These self-explanatory visual examples help us to recall the theoretical framework on which this research was based. Finally, this paper might help us to see how functional peace might be the way to go in international relations