| dc.description.abstract | Global value chains are inherently dynamic, continuously adapting in line with
current micro and macro conditions. We live in a metapolitical world where global
value chains are put under pressure, and where they might become fragile if they
become too specialized, dispersed, or long-chained. The thesis will discuss key
drivers for change. These are: 1) political factors and policies, 2) technological
factors, and 3) environmental factors and sustainability. The purpose of our thesis
is to examine how these key drivers change global value chains. More specifically,
in terms of: 1) length, which is defined by the geographical distances and the
number of actors involved; and 2) vulnerability, which is embedded in the
governance, location choices and the rigidity of global value chains. By drawing
from multiple theoretical perspectives, we propose a conceptual framework. The
framework reflects the layered complexity of macro-economic and political factors
that shapes the governance structures and location of global value chains. To enrich
our conceptual discussion, we present five empirical illustrations on global value
chains. In order to make a pragmatic demarcation, we analyze industrial value
chains and companies that have their origin in Norway. This allows us to discuss
and explain different vantage points and accounts for extra-firm actors, regional
developments, and internalization choices. The findings indicate that technological,
political, and environmental factors significantly shape the length and vulnerability
of global value chains. | en_US |
