The Problem with Consensus in the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change

Abstract

The lack of clear procedure and the use of ad hoc consensus decision-making in the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change is a significant problem. Drawing on theories of international regimes formulated by Robert O. Keohane and on a conception of global responsibility based on social connection rather than liability formulated by Iris Marion Young, Vogel argue that consensus decisionmaking procedure in the UNFCCC is both ineffective and unjust. It obscures in a forum that is meant to clarify. It glosses over the differentiated capabilities of the world’s countries in a forum that needs to grapple with those differences. Though majority-voting rules will not solve all the problems of the UNFCCC, clear procedure is necessary if world leaders are to scale up cooperative climate action.