On March 31, Laura Birkman, the Programme Director at HCSS, spoke at the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency (PBL) Grey Swans event, titled “Navigating the Geopolitical Maze: The Future of Global Climate and Biodiversity Governance.” She shared insights on how changing global politics affect international cooperation on climate and biodiversity.
This event aimed to deepen understanding of how geopolitics shapes environmental governance. Birkman emphasized that competition among nations and increased pressure on natural systems are influencing this landscape. Her research examines the connections between climate change, biodiversity, and international politics, showcasing how they interact with one another.
One key point she raised is that as the world becomes more complex and multipolar, smaller, targeted alliances among nations—known as minilateralism—are crucial. While broad agreements are important, smaller coalitions can help tackle specific issues where larger negotiations falter. This could include initiatives like the G7’s Just Energy Transition Partnerships or collaborations between Africa and Europe on green energy.
Birkman stressed that these focused partnerships must prioritize transparency, fairness, and local engagement to ensure they don’t deepen existing inequalities, especially between wealthier and developing nations. As climate challenges grow, the need to recognize the interconnectedness of food security, water availability, and political stability becomes increasingly vital.
She isn’t alone in this view. The Shift Project, a think tank focused on climate and energy, notes that nearly 70% of companies indicate they are concerned about climate impacts on their operations. This highlights growing global awareness about the need for cooperative solutions.
During the same event, Jorrit Oppewal presented the AIV report discussing the roles of the Netherlands and Europe in a shifting global order, while Daniel Scholten from Wageningen University discussed governance in the energy transition. The event ended with a discussion on practical insights and the importance of justice in climate governance.
Overall, the dialogue revealed that addressing climate and biodiversity issues requires a blend of strategies. Building strong, fair alliances and being aware of the complex landscape are essential for meaningful progress. As climate change escalates, how we govern these challenges will inevitably influence global relationships and cooperation.
For more on this topic, you can explore the report by the Advisory Council on International Affairs here and understand the ongoing global efforts in sustainability governance on the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency site.
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