Publication

This brief proposes a new approach to the way African countries conduct international climate change negotiations. It argues that the traditional strategy of African negotiators which seeks legally binding targets and financial transfers faces insurmountable obstacles. In its place, the author argues that Africa should offer developed countries a package deal that includes long-term secure access to African clean and low-carbon energy resources along with investment opportunities in infrastructure that will provide universal access to energy on the continent. This proposal, he contends, would make the supply of global energy more secure, improve universal access to modern energy for Africans and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.