Global Environmental Negotiations: Observing, Engaging, and Reflecting (74129)

SS 2026
Di.: 12:00-14:00

Stephanie Thomas

Seminar (2 ECTS)

Learning Objectives: The module enables students to identify and explain the formats of UNFCCC and IPBES negotiations, to observe and critically analyse negotiation processes and stakeholder dynamics, and to communicate effectively with diverse actors in a multilateral environment. Participants carry out role‑based tasks within an observer or academic delegation and design and facilitate a post‑event seminar drawing on insights from participation, press releases, and UN documents. Throughout the module, students reflect on the interconnections between science, policy, and advocacy in global environmental governance.

Course Content: This module prepares students for meaningful participation as observers in global environmental negotiation processes, such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of the Parties (COP) and the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) plenary sessions. Through pre-event briefings, strategy development, and task assignments, students learn to develop an overview of global environmental negotiation bodies such as the UNFCCC COP and the IPBES plenary, understand institutional formats and decision‑making procedures, and become familiar with key actors, including NGOs, scientific organizations, and member states. They prepare observationally and analytically for negotiations by examining current focus topics and agenda items, and they practise networking with delegates and observers. Within their observer group, students coordinate roles and responsibilities, participate in official sessions and side events (or online equivalents), and finally design and deliver a structured post‑seminar to report on negotiation outcomes and reflect on or disseminate their experience.