Autocratization and Green Backlash – Why Democracy matters for effective climate action

In the current geopolitical context, increasingly characterized by polarization and populism, democracy and climate action are losing political appeal in many countries. Nevertheless, the ability of our governance systems to effectively address climate change and environmental degradation remains a fundamental collective concern, as social cohesion, stability, and economic prosperity depend on it.

Objectives of this side event:

• Reflecting on the links between climate change and democracy in the UNFCCC context, in particular with regard to opportunities related to a ‘just transition’, security policies and the economy;
• Discussing issues at the intersection of both challenges, such as misinformation and disinformation, the need for more effective citizen participation, and institutional reforms and innovations;
• Presenting the newly constituted "International Climate and Democracy Coalition”, a platform for dialogue, knowledge and experience-sharing, and coordination around the Climate-Democracy Nexus.