Theatre of Negotiations’ experiment

Source: The post Theatre of Negotiations’ experiment has been created, based on the article “Rethinking ‘representation’ for a meaningful COP30” published in “The Hindu” on 4th December 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3 – Environment

Context: The article discusses the challenges of climate change negotiations at COP29 and suggests a new approach to representation. It proposes giving equal rights to humans and non-humans, like the atmosphere and oceans, in negotiations, aiming for more inclusive and effective climate action. Theatre of Negotiations

Why is COP29 seen as slow progress?

1. COP29 negotiations in Baku faced criticism for limited progress. Critics argue that the lack of a unified global authority and a universal metric for diverse nation-states’ interests hinder effective climate action.
2. There is no global authority to act for the planet, making unified action difficult.
3. Diverse political, economic, and social interests of nations hinder consensus.
4. Critics argue that ‘business as usual’ is not working.

For detailed information on COP 29 Outcomes read this article here

What is the ‘Theatre of Negotiations’ experiment?

1. Overview: The ‘Theatre of Negotiations’ was a week-long event held in May 2015 at Sciences Po, Paris, involving 200 students from 143 universities worldwide.
2. Purpose: It aimed to reimagine traditional COP climate negotiations by granting equal representation to both humans and non-humans, such as the atmosphere and oceans.
3. Representation: Non-human entities “spoke” through proxies to express their stakes in climate talks. For instance, the “Ocean” imposed conditions on the “United States,” and the “Atmosphere” addressed “China” about emissions.
4. Inclusive Approach: Delegations included state representatives, scientists, businesses, and civil society, ensuring diverse perspectives.
5. Outcomes: Participants learned the importance of clear communication, while organisers identified logistical challenges.
6. Significance: The experiment demonstrated new ways to address climate challenges by rethinking sovereignty and ecosystem interdependence, offering an inclusive model for future negotiations.

How is representation of non-humans evolving globally?

1. Non-humans, like the atmosphere and oceans, are gaining legal and political agency as “interest bearers.”
2. Countries like Ecuador and New Zealand grant legal rights to rivers and ecosystems.
3. India and Pakistan use courts to provide representation for non-humans.
4. In Canada, institutions recognize the moral standing of non-humans.
5. This reflects a growing trend to expand governance to include environmental entities, ensuring a more inclusive approach to climate action.

What should COP30 in Belém focus on?

1. COP30 in the Amazon could represent the “Amazon” itself as an entity.
2. Transparency and alignment of policies with climate values are essential for success.
3. Hosting COPs in oil-dependent economies erodes trust and progress.
4. New negotiation methods and actionable commitments are needed to bridge the gap between ambition and action.

Question for practice:

Discuss how the representation of non-humans in climate negotiations can lead to more inclusive and effective climate action.