A qualitative exploration of intersectoral stakeholder cooperation in a Dutch integrated obesity prevention network for youth

Intersectoral cooperation to prevent childhood obesity requires cooperation among various stakeholders. JOGG is a Dutch community-based approach involving intersectoral stakeholder cooperation among stakeholders. This study aims to explore (i) stakeholders' experiences with indicators of intersectoral cooperation, (ii) barriers and facilitators that influence the cooperation, and (iii) suggested strategies to improve the cooperation within JOGG South-Limburg. In this cross-sectional study in the Netherlands (April-May 2023), 21 semi-structured interviews were conducted with JOGG ambassadors (8), municipality officials (4), and other stakeholders (10). The study examined stakeholders' experiences of intersectoral cooperation based on three indicators: efforts to achieve goals, positive relationships among stakeholders, and psychological health in terms of personal (dis)advantages of cooperation. Additionally, it identified stakeholders' barriers, facilitators, and strategies to improve stakeholder cooperation. Participants evaluated the indicators' effort to achieve and psychological health positively, due to strong participant motivation and participation, and because personal benefits (e.g. close relationships) outweighed disadvantages (e.g. time investment) of cooperation. The indicator positive relationships could be improved, as not all participants experienced support or a sense of unity. Main barriers included employment of stakeholders at different organizations, high workloads, limited budgets in smaller municipalities, and perceived limited added value of intersectoral cooperation. Key facilitators of stakeholder cooperation included regular contact with other stakeholders, a shared vision, cooperation prioritization, and frequent network meetings. Optimizing cooperation could be achieved through more efficient meetings, strengthening relationships between stakeholders and clear communication of the added value of intersectoral cooperation. Individual stakeholder involvement should align with the organization's and municipality's possibilities.