India’s Foreign Policy and Climate Negotiation Strategies [UGC-NTA Net Political Science]

December 24, 2014 December 28, 2024

India’s foreign policy plays important role in shaping its approach to global challenges, particularly climate change. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) serves as a very important institution in this context, providing essential scientific assessments that inform international negotiations.

Overview of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)

The IPCC was established in 1988 by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Its primary purpose is to provide policymakers with regular scientific assessments regarding climate change, its impacts, and strategies for adaptation and mitigation.

Structure of the IPCC

The IPCC comprises three Working Groups (WGs) and a Task Force on National Greenhouse Gas Inventories. Each group focuses on different aspects of climate science:

WG I: Physical Science Basis
WG II: Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability
WG III: Mitigation of Climate Change

Key Reports

The IPCC releases Assessment Reports (AR) approximately every five to seven years, along with Special Reports and Methodology Reports. Notable reports include:

First Assessment Report (FAR): Released in 1990, it established a link between human activities and climate change.
Second Assessment Report (SAR): Released in 1995, it provided stronger evidence of climate change and potential impacts.
Third Assessment Report (TAR): Released in 2001, it brought into light the urgent need for action to mitigate climate change.
Fourth Assessment Report (AR4): Released in 2007, it received the Nobel Peace Prize for raising awareness on climate change.
Fifth Assessment Report (AR5): Released in 2014, it emphasised the need to limit global warming to 2°C.
Sixth Assessment Report (AR6): Released in 2021, it provided updated data on climate impacts and the urgency of reducing emissions.

Role in International Climate Negotiations

The IPCC serves as the scientific foundation for international climate negotiations, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.

Influence on Negotiations

IPCC reports inform and guide negotiations, shaping agendas and commitments of countries. They provide essential data that countries rely on to formulate their climate policies.

Global Stocktake Contributions

The IPCC’s assessments contribute to the global stocktake process under the Paris Agreement. This process evaluates collective progress towards achieving climate goals.

India’s Engagement with the IPCC

India actively participates in the IPCC, contributing to various working groups and reports. Indian scientists have held key positions, including co-chair roles in working groups.

Utilisation of IPCC Findings

India integrates IPCC findings into national climate policies. The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) is one such example, guiding India’s climate strategies.

India’s Negotiation Strategies

India’s approach to climate negotiations is shaped by its unique socio-economic context and development priorities.

Equity and Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR)

India advocates for equity in climate action. It emphasizes the historical responsibilities of developed nations in contributing to climate change. This principle is critical in negotiations.

Focus on Adaptation Strategies

Due to its vulnerability to climate impacts, India prioritises adaptation strategies. Agriculture and water resources are particularly sensitive to climate variability.

Financial Support and Technology Transfer

India seeks financial assistance and technology transfer from developed countries. This support is essential for implementing effective climate action.

Coalition Building

India engages with other developing nations to form coalitions, such as the G77 and China. This strengthens its bargaining power during negotiations.

Challenges and Criticisms

India faces several challenges in its climate negotiation strategies.

Balancing Development and Environment

The balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability remains challenge. Rapid development often conflicts with climate commitments.

Domestic Political Pressures

Internal political and economic pressures influence India’s negotiation stance. These pressures can hinder ambitious climate commitments.

Global Expectations

There are increasing global expectations for India to take more ambitious climate action. As a major emitter, India faces pressure to align with international climate goals.