The project "Reforming the International Climate Negotiations" aims to systematically collect and critically evaluate existing reform proposals for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and, on this basis, provide constructive impetus for a more effective global climate governance. This initiative stems from growing dissatisfaction with the outcomes of UN Climate Conferences – most recently evident at COP29 in Baku in 2024 – and from calls for structural changes, for example by groups like the Club of Rome or initiatives such as the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty.
The project seeks to analyse the political, legal, and practical viability of existing reform approaches. A core question is how international climate negotiations can shift from their current focus on consensus and process to greater implementation and impact.
The project's approach and methodology are based on three elements:
- Systematic analysis and evaluation of current reform proposals in academic and political discussions
- Development of an expert paper for an international workshop on July 2, 2025, at the University of Leeds
- Exchange with international experts to further develop and contextualise reform options
Work Steps:
- Review and categorise existing proposals for reforming COP structures
- Develop a discussion paper as a contribution to the Leeds workshop
- A staff member will participate in the workshop to present and discuss the findings
Expected outcomes: The project will provide well-researched perspectives for the ongoing debate on reforming the UNFCCC process and identify concrete options for action. It will strengthen the Wuppertal Institute's strategic contribution to the future of international climate negotiations.