Democracy Key to Tackling Climate Crisis, International IDEA Says at COP30

Democracy is essential for an effective response to climate change, International IDEA said at the UN Climate Conference (COP30) in Brazil, as it launched the International Climate and Democracy Coalition (ICDC) at an event in the German Pavilion on November 18.

Speakers warned that global democratic backsliding is undermining climate action, even as public support for stronger climate policies remains high. Michele Poletto of International IDEA said weakening democratic institutions have led to political divestment from climate policies, despite evidence that democratic governance is crucial for fair and durable climate solutions.

German government representative Natascha Beinker described climate and democracy crises as “two sides of the same coin,” stressing that accountability, transparency, participation and free media—features absent in autocracies—are vital for climate resilience.

European Climate Foundation CEO Laurence Tubiana said climate policy has long overlooked democratic processes, focusing instead on targets and technology. She warned that governments often cite lack of public support to justify inaction, despite polling showing citizens want stronger climate action.

Panelists from the Pacific Islands and Brazil highlighted how citizen participation strengthens climate policies on the ground, countering disinformation and backlash. The event concluded with renewed support from the German government and the European Climate Foundation, with calls for a citizens’ track at future UN climate talks and coordinated efforts to combat organized climate disinformation.