Publication

This brief recommends six tactics that the chairs of lower-level UNFCCC negotiating groups can use to avoid deadlocks in current and future climate negotiations. They include 1) brokering compromises while remaining as transparent and inclusive as possible; 2) enhancing their own influence by acting impartially and recognizing cultural differences; 3) managing agendas so they create momentum and prioritize/link issues; 4) focusing debates by using the chair’s information advantage; 5) steering individual negotiation sessions in time-efficient ways; and 6) building trust, primarily by creating 'negotiation spaces' that allow for frank and constructive dialogue.