Social network analysis for territorial sustainability governance: a systematic review

This article critically examines the role of Social Network Analysis (SNA) in stakeholder mapping for territorial sustainability. Based on a systematic literature review of 14 highly relevant peer-reviewed articles (2018–2025) focused on critical application, the study interrogates the epistemological and normative assumptions embedded in common SNA applications. While SNA is often used to identify actor centrality and coordination, this review explores its potential to reveal power asymmetries, inclusion gaps, and governance legitimacy. Emergent thematic domains include stakeholder diversity, institutional performance, and reflexive approach to SNA, reframing it as both technical instrument and critical lens for democratic governance. This contribution aligns with deliberative models of public administration and aims to advance theoretical dialogue on collaborative networks, territorial resilience, and ethical governance in the sustainability context. Systematic review registration https://www.osf.io/d6qfy/overview .