Climate Change Diplomacy and the Geopolitics of Energy Transition

Abstract

Climate change diplomacy and the geopolitics of energy transition represent critical intersections of environmental policy and international relations. This paper examines how the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources reshapes global power dynamics, emphasizing the role of diplomacy in addressing transboundary climate challenges. Key themes include competing national interests, historical dependencies on fossil fuels, and technological disparities in renewable energy access. The analysis highlights case studies of major players like the EU, U.S., China, and the Middle East, revealing divergent strategies and geopolitical tensions. Theoretical frameworks—realism, liberalism, and constructivism—provide insights into the motivations and barriers influencing international cooperation. Despite advancements in renewable technologies, challenges such as supply chain vulnerabilities, inequitable climate finance, and political resistance persist. The paper concludes with recommendations for inclusive diplomacy, resilient supply chains, and equitable technology transfer to ensure a just energy transition. Ultimately, reconciling geopolitical rivalries with planetary survival demands adaptive governance and collective action.