How do IGOs contribute to environmental policy-making?

IGOs contribute to environmental policy-making by setting standards, facilitating cooperation, and providing platforms for negotiation and dialogue.

International Governmental Organisations (IGOs) play a crucial role in shaping environmental policies at a global level. They set international standards and norms that guide national environmental policies. For instance, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) develops international environmental conventions, promotes environmental science and information, and strengthens institutions for the wise management of the environment. These standards and norms often serve as a benchmark for countries to develop their own environmental policies.

IGOs also facilitate cooperation among nations on environmental issues. Environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution are transboundary in nature and cannot be effectively addressed by a single country. IGOs provide a platform for countries to collaborate and coordinate their efforts to tackle these challenges. For example, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) brings together scientists and policymakers from around the world to assess the science related to climate change and to formulate effective strategies to mitigate its impact.

Moreover, IGOs provide a platform for negotiation and dialogue among countries on environmental issues. They organise international conferences and meetings where countries can negotiate agreements and treaties on environmental protection. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its annual Conference of the Parties (COP) is a prime example of this. These platforms also allow for the participation of non-state actors such as civil society organisations and businesses, thereby ensuring a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to environmental policy-making.

IGOs also play a role in monitoring and enforcing compliance with international environmental agreements. They have mechanisms in place to monitor countries' progress in implementing these agreements and to hold them accountable for any non-compliance. For instance, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) can impose sanctions on countries that violate environmental provisions in trade agreements.

In addition, IGOs contribute to capacity building in environmental policy-making. They provide technical assistance, training, and resources to help countries, particularly developing ones, to develop and implement effective environmental policies. This is crucial in ensuring that all countries, regardless of their level of development, can contribute to global efforts to protect the environment.