Paradoxical tensions at multiple levels: A model of unbalanced supranational coopetition

The purpose of the study is to extend the coopetition concept to the regional level, throwing light on the dynamics of cross-border collaboration affected by paradoxical tensions between national and regional demands. We use in-depth interviews with home country institutional actors, utilizing immersive fieldwork on location and an iterative process in data analysis and theory development. We develop a conceptual model of unbalanced supranational coopetition, demonstrating internal tensions from nested paradoxes in a multilevel view. The balance is affected by unique contradictory interactions between regional and national interests, triple identities, ambivalence, and avoidance manifested at macro, meso and micro levels. The findings show the prioritization of non-regional demands and overall reactive dynamics, thereby contributing to the coopetition research stream.