Climate Politics in Small European States

Small states have contradictory expectations regarding their climate policies and politics due to their characteristics. This book examines how the characteristics of small states enable and constrain ambitious climate policies, contributing to our understanding of how institutions, actors, and ideas shape climate policy and politics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 170 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Small states possess a unique set of characteristics that generate diverse and often conflicting expectations regarding their climate policies and politics. These expectations stem from the perception that small states are market- and rule-takers, largely irrelevant to the global challenge of climate change, and must prioritize international competitiveness above climate policy goals. Alternatively, some argue that the institutions and size of small states foster consensus, coordination, and quick responses to a rapidly changing international landscape, enabling them to attain competitive advantages and emerge as climate leaders.

Climate Politics in Small European States delves into the intricate relationship between these characteristics and climate politics, exploring how they shape and enable or constrain ambitious climate policies. This volume contributes to our understanding of how institutions, including electoral institutions and institutions of interest intermediation, as well as actors such as parties, interest groups, individuals, governments, and ideas, influence climate policy and politics. Furthermore, it seeks to rectify a perceived lack of attention given to smaller states in the study of comparative climate politics.

The chapters in this book were originally published as a special issue of Environmental Politics, showcasing the cutting-edge research and insights of scholars in the field. By examining the unique challenges and opportunities faced by small states in the context of climate change, this volume provides valuable insights into the broader dynamics of climate policy and politics at the global level.

In conclusion, the characteristics of small states generate multiple and contradictory expectations concerning their climate policies and politics. Climate Politics in Small European States offers a comprehensive examination of how these characteristics shape climate politics and contribute to our understanding of the broader dynamics of climate policy and politics. By exploring the unique challenges and opportunities faced by small states, this volume provides valuable insights into the future of climate governance and the role of small states in addressing the global challenge of climate change.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367639976