Climate Change and International Politics: What Students Should Know

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Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges of the present time, transcending borders and demanding coordinated international actions. Its far-reaching impacts—rising sea levels, extreme weather conditions, food insecurity, and ecosystem collapse—require governments, organizations, and individuals to work together. For students, understanding the intersection of climate change and international politics is crucial, as it shapes global policies, economies, and societies. This blog explores how climate change influences international relations, the key agreements and conflicts, and why these topics matter for the next generation.

The Global Nature of Climate Change:

Climate change is inherently a global issue. Greenhouse gas emissions from one country affect the entire planet, as carbon dioxide and other gases do not respect boundaries. For instance, emissions from industrialized nations like the United States and China contribute to rising sea levels that threaten small islands like the Maldives or Tuvalu. This interconnectedness makes international cooperation essential but also complicates political dynamics.

Students should recognize that climate change exacerbates existing inequities. Developing nations, which often contribute the least to emissions, face disproportionate impacts, such as droughts in sub-Saharan Africa or flooding in Bangladesh. These disparities fuel debates in international politics about responsibility, funding, and justice, as wealthier nations are pressured to support vulnerable ones.

Key International Agreements

International politics has shaped the global response to climate change through landmark agreements. The most notable include:

The Kyoto Protocol (1997):

The Kyoto Protocol was one of the initial steps in the global platform to address climate change. It set binding emission reduction targets for developed countries, in recognition of their historical greenhouse gas emissions, However, with the United States-generated heavy-weight emitter refusing to ratify it, while the developing countries, mainly China and India, remained free from binding commitments, its major effectiveness remained stymied. Students should observe the Kyoto Protocol as having marked the inception of a glaring dispute between developed and developing countries, which is a persistent theme in climate negotiations.

The Paris Agreement (2015):

The Paris Agreement, however, is indeed a much more advanced step. Adopted by almost every country under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), it strives to keep the increase in global average temperature below 2°C, with further efforts to restrict it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Unlike the Kyoto Protocol, the Paris Agreement has voluntary commitments from all countries, called Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), taking into account the country's capabilities.

Since global cooperation has been recognized as a prerequisite in the Paris Agreement, there are political challenges behind it. The United States' brief withdrawal in 2020 from the Paris Agreement is a clear indication that domestic politics can interfere with international commitments. It is important for students to know that it is up to the countries to update their NDCs and meet them regularly, which requires the political will and public support.

COP Meetings:

It is paramount that the Conference of the Parties (COP), held once annually under the UNFCCC, should have been the seat for all negotiations on climate. From COP26 held at Glasgow in 2021 to COP28 being hosted in Dubai in 2023, the matters of phasing down coal and putting up a loss and damage fund for vulnerable countries were discussed. These events both manifest progress and produce friction, as countries debate issues of funding, technology transfers, and emission targets. A student could find it illuminating to participate in or follow the unfolding events at COP meetings (virtually, at least) to understand the nature of real-time global climate politics.

Political Challenges in Climate Action:

Climate change from a perspective has been politicized because it involves clashing national interests, economic priorities, and ideological differences. Some of the issues are

Economic Interests vs. Environmental Goals:

Fossil-fuel-dependent economic growth in countries provides reasons for resistance to rapid decarbonization. The trade-offs between renewable and other economic activities exist for oil producers like Saudi Arabia or economies with coal like India. Students would do well to consider how energy forms the basis of international negotiations.

Climate Justice and Equity:

The concepts of climate justice underscore that not all countries bear equal responsibility or suffer equal consequences. Developing nations argue that wealthier countries, which industrialized earlier, should take greater responsibility and provide financial and technological support. The $100 billion annual climate finance pledge by developed nations, agreed upon in 2009, remains a contentious issue due to delays and insufficient funding. Students should consider how historical inequalities influence current climate policies and negotiations.

Geopolitical Tensions:

Climate change can exacerbate geopolitical conflicts. For instance, with Arctic ice melting, new shipping and resource extraction opportunities arise, much to the dismay and ire of countries like Russia, Canada, and the United States. Similarly, water scarcity in places such as the Middle East may stoke quarrels over shared resources, like those concerning the Nile River. Students should analyze to what extent climate impacts can both disrupt and promote international cooperation.

The Role of Non-State Actors:

International politics isn't just about governments. Non-state actors—corporations, NGOs, and youth movements—play a growing role in climate action. For example, multinational corporations like Apple or Google set net-zero targets and influence global supply chains. NGOs like Greenpeace advocate for stronger policies, while youth activists, inspired by figures like Greta Thunberg, pressure governments through global protests.

Students should recognize their potential as non-state actors. Joining climate-focused organizations, practicing advocacy, or pursuing careers in sustainability can amplify their impact. Understanding the interplay between governments and non-state actors is key to navigating the complex landscape of climate politics.

Regional Perspectives:

Different regions face unique climate challenges, shaping their political priorities.

Small Island Nations: Countries like Fiji or Barbados face existential threats from rising sea levels, making them vocal advocates for ambitious global actions.
Africa: African nations prioritize adaptation and funding, as they face droughts, desertification, and food scarcity despite low emissions.
Asia: Rapidly industrializing nations like China and India balance economic growth with emission reduction, often facing scrutiny from the West.
Europe: The European Union leads in ambitious climate policies, such as the Green Deal, but faces challenges in the coordination of 27 member states.
North America: The United States and Canada grapple with balancing energy demands, public opinion, and international commitments.

Students should explore how regional priorities influence global negotiations, as these differences often lead to compromises or stalemates.

Why This Matters for Students

Climate change will define the future for today’s students. Beyond environmental impacts, it will shape careers, economies, and global stability. Here’s why students should care:

Future Leadership: Today’s students will become tomorrow’s policymakers, scientists, and activists. Understanding climate politics equips them to lead effectively.
Career Opportunities: The green economy—renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and climate tech—offers growing career paths.
Global Citizenship: Climate change requires global solutions, and students can contribute through advocacy, innovation, or informed voting.

Students can engage by studying climate-related disciplines (e.g., environmental science, international relations), participating in Model UN or climate simulations, or joining local sustainability initiatives.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Looking forward, climate politics will evolve as the crisis intensifies. Emerging technologies, like carbon capture or green hydrogen, could shift economic and political dynamics. However, challenges like populist backlash, funding disputes, and enforcement of commitments will persist. Students should stay informed about innovations and policy developments, as these will shape future negotiations.

International cooperation remains the cornerstone of effective climate action. While agreements like Paris provide a framework, their success depends on accountability and collective effort. Students can play a role by holding leaders accountable and advocating for science-based policies.

Conclusion

Climate change and international politics are deeply intertwined, shaping how the world responds to an existential threat. For students, understanding this intersection is not just academic—it’s a call to action. By learning about global agreements, political challenges, and regional perspectives, students can prepare to contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future. Whether through advocacy, innovation, or leadership, the next generation has the power to drive change in a warming world.