Despite overwhelming scientific evidence for the need to decarbonise our economies to meet the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C temperature target and a proliferation of “net zero” targets, hardly any country is on track to meet these commitments. Countries moreover differ vastly in their climate and energy policy choice, be it in terms of promoting renewables, phasing out coal, relying on transition fuels, such as gas, or clinging on to nuclear power as a carbon-free alternative. This class asks why these differences are so persistent and turns to differences in political systems, institutions, and political incentives for explanations.

The first two days of the block course teach theoretical foundations derived from theories of political science, political economy, and international relations to help us assess and understand differences in climate and energy politics around the world. We will specifically focus on the role of interests and institutions and how they translate preferences into political outcomes. In doing so, we will seek to answer questions such as these: why are international climate negotiations so difficult? Are democrats better environmental stewards than autocracies? What role does public opinion play for the formulation of climate policies? Do firms always oppose more progressive climate policy? And how do environmental disasters matter for political behaviour?

 On the third day, we will use the developed knowledge in a simulation exercise in which students will role play country delegations that participate in a UNFCCC climate summit to negotiate an agreement on the global phase-out of fossil fuels. This interactive, group activity will zero in on the importance of interests, institutions, and questions of climate justice.