The conflict between efficiency and transparency: Think tanks' influence during COP28

COP28 in Dubai marks the 28th annual conference within the UN where world leaders gather to discuss climate change measures. However, it's not just a gathering for states but also for companies, grassroots organizations, and other entities, including think tanks.

It's these latter groups that Adrienne Sörbom, professor at SCORE, will focus on when she travels to the climate summit in the United Arab Emirates.

"My interest is in understanding how organizations such as think tanks, companies, private research institutes, and others attempt to influence negotiations at COP events," says Adrienne Sörbom.

Her research projects, 'Global Climate Change Governance and Private Diplomacy: The Case of Transnational Think Tanks' and 'Climate Policy and Non-State Diplomacy: Nordic Think Tanks,' conducted with colleagues at SCORE, will shed light on the role these organizations play in shaping global climate policy.

Why are think tanks important to study in the climate field?

"We know from previous research that think tanks and all these types of organizations are active in global governance. We believe they will also be active in this type of area. We can also see from previous participant lists that these organizations are there."

Adrienne Sörbom explains that a summit like COP28 provides an excellent arena for think tanks. It's a sphere where influential players gather, allowing active participation and the development of crucial relationships.

Is there a conclusion to draw about the influence of think tanks during COP?

"We believe, based on previous research, that they will try to act as what we call 'private diplomats.'

"This means they will try to act as ambassadors for certain issues and solutions. They will also be there as private conveners for discreet meetings behind the scenes."

When all UN member states are to agree on the way forward in the climate issue, there are significant challenges. Therefore, the involvement of non-state actors in influencing processes can be beneficial for a smooth progression. However, these are not organizations that voters have elected or can directly hold accountable.

Could there be a democratic problem with the influence of think tanks?

Adrienne Sörbom: Photo: Juliana Wiklund

"There is a conflict here between, on one hand, transparency and accountability, and on the other, efficiency in negotiations.

"In such instances, these private diplomats can be useful; they can be effective when you need to find solutions and you cannot do so publicly. It's good to have this type of back channel that these organizations can offer. Of course, it's not done publicly, which is a problem from a democratic perspective."

Adrienne Sörbom's research can help understand a complex dynamic where think tanks and private actors play a significant role in shaping global climate policy. She will be present in Dubai between November 29 to December 13.