Governance and Multilateral Agreements
The frameworks that govern global economic activity and international environmental governance touch every aspect of our lives – from our internet data privacy, to how countries share knowledge about food, to our ability to buy affordable, safe products in line with social and environmental norms.
While the number of multilateral agreements and governance frameworks abound, they vary on multiple levels. They cover different topics, from monetary policy to international trade, chemicals management to climate change. They have different memberships that do not fully overlap, and each have their own types of obligations. They also have varying legal implications, with some taking a “soft law” approach without enforcement mechanisms, while others take a “hard law” approach with the prospect of sanctions for non-compliance.
At IISD, our work on governance and multilateral agreements involves working with countries, regional and international institutions, academics, and civil society representatives to better understand these systems and their implications for sustainable, inclusive development. We consider issues such as policy coherence and conflict; governance gaps and overlaps; transparency and accountability; and the implications of these frameworks for national and regional policy space. We advise governments, hold expert meetings, participate in international forums, document and analyze negotiations, and conduct in-depth research into trends, reform options, and best practices.
Blog
What to Expect at Plastics INC-4
What to expect in Ottawa as plastic pollution treaty talks get underway, explained by the team leader of the global neutral reporting service Earth Negotiations Bulletin.
What’s Next After UNEA-6: Why “synergies” is more than a buzzword
In an era marked by escalating environmental challenges and geopolitical tension, the Sixth United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) called for more cooperation to tackle the triple planetary crisis.
UNFCCC Submissions Tracker
Tracking and sharing opportunities for stakeholders to give input to the UN climate change negotiations.
Lessons Learned at COP 28
Two newcomers to climate negotiations reflect on their COP 28 experiences—surprises, insights, and what they'll look for at the next UNFCCC talks.
Four Key Elements to Ensure a Successful Global Goal on Adaptation
As the final rounds of negotiations on the GGA kick off at COP 28, a looming question remains: Will it be comprehensive enough for countries to implement in the years ahead?
The Global Stocktake Needs to Send a Strong Message on Adaptation
Concluding at COP 28, the inaugural global stocktake sheds light on our collective progress toward reaching the Paris Agreement’s goals. What signals should it send to countries to strengthen adaptation and resilience in the next 5 years?
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What Does an Inclusive Global Stocktake Look Like for Civil Society?
The inaugural Global Stocktake will conclude at COP 28 in 2023. With the process well underway, the current and upcoming phases of the Global Stocktake must be open and inclusive in order to succeed.
The State of Global Environmental Governance 2022
Our reporting team explores global environmental diplomacy wins and misses as in-person talks resumed in full force in 2022.
The Global Biodiversity Framework's "30x30" Target: Catchy slogan or effective conservation goal?
In the lead-up to COP 15, we take a closer look at one of the key targets included under the proposed Global Biodiversity Framework.
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Governance and Multilateral Agreements
The frameworks that govern economies and our ecosystems touch every aspect of our lives—and have implications for sustainable, inclusive development.