Author

Beom-Shik Shin is an associate professor in the department of international relations at Seoul National University.

Abstract

Global environmental politics, which had been caught up in conflict since the Copenhagen Climate Change Conference, has been making progress following the Durban Conference in 2011. It is unlikely though that the new framework will rely on another coercive regulatory system like the Kyoto Protocol. Rather it has shifted from what had been a binding system to a voluntary one. Under this system, each country will set its own emission standards which will be reported to and accredited by the international community. This will mean that the international pressure directed toward specific countries will gradually mitigate.

On the other hand, based on previous research that has observed the prospect of global environmental politics, the issue of climate change is likely to trigger more complex problems. It will be linked to the issues of trade, food, and even security issues, rather than just limited to the environment. It is therefore necessary to come up with a solution that can tackle climate change issues from the root. In the future, climate change will increasingly affect traditional challenges such as the economy and national security.

In order to become more environmental friendly, South Korea must initiate change; it must build political, economic, and social competence. A measured combination the concept of “environmental mainstreaming” and “strategic environmental assessment” must take place, which will help reconstruct the norms, institutions, organization and political agenda of South Korea so that environmental issues can be more effectively addressed. This should not be limited to domestic policies but be also applicable to international policies, such as economic development and aid.

It is important to examine the long-term effects of climate change on international politics, and observe how key issues on the dilemma continue to interconnect. The agendas regarding trade, energy, and food crisis, which are especially relevant to the issue of climate change, deserves closer attention.

Since East Asia is particularly vulnerable to crises due to heightened tension and strategic mistrust in the region, collaboration and adjustments related to climate change at the regional level are both crucial and urgent. Countries located in East Asia must cooperate on developing and institutionalizing diverse arrangements for environment, energy, and food cooperation.

South Korea’s effort to transform and enhance its capability in tackling climate change issues through innovative and active measures will naturally increase the country’s soft and hard power, as well leadership and position in international politics. It is critical to avoid meaningless efforts just to stand out in the international politics of climate change without securing a corresponding capability at home. In particular, South Korea should maintain a prudent position not to become entangled in great power conflicts.

The full text in Korean is available here