Abstract

We live in a world of states. But arguably the core (existential) challenge we currently face on earth—the threat of climate change—is one that looks particularly ill-suited for the state system. The problem is clearly a global one; unilateral action is insufficient to address the challenge; and any attempt to agree on a cooperative response is immediately beset by complex logistical, institutional, and ethical challenges. Yet we have seen international agreements on climate change, and states have found ways to promote strong action on climate change (from other states and from the broader international community) in a range of ways. This chapter examines the challenges of addressing climate change in a world of states before exploring the means through which states have attempted to promote (and in some cases undermine) action on climate change, in the process reflecting on the success of these strategies.