Between the ecological perspective and global confrontation: Current results of COP26

Valentin Rybachek

Between the ecological perspective and global confrontation: Current results of COP26

Valentin Rybachek

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify the impact of COP26 decisions on political processes, energy policy, and international cooperation. For this, the study employed the methods of historical analysis, comparison of political positions of the key participants of the conference, as well as analysis of the adopted resolutions and their consequences. The results of the study showed that COP26 was a prominent milestone in shaping global climate policy but reflected major political differences between countries. On the one hand, the decisions made helped to intensify work on renewable energy sources and implement emission reduction mechanisms. On the other hand, the conference revealed contradictions in the timing of carbon neutrality and the scale of commitments, which limited the scope for global coordination. An analysis of climate funding revealed that developed countries, albeit committed to increasing financial support for developing countries, have been unable to meet all their demands. This has led to political tensions that hinder the effective implementation of climate initiatives. Special attention is paid to the role of COP26 in strengthening and weakening international cooperation in the energy sector. The study found that the ambitious emission reduction targets of the EU and the US are markedly different from the cautious stance of fossil fuel dependent countries such as China and Russia. The study highlighted the need to find a compromise between countries to effectively address climate challenges. Particular attention should be paid to creating financing mechanisms that accommodate the interests of both developed and developing countries. Only by strengthening international cooperation and adopting an adaptive approach to climate commitments can sustainable outcomes in the fight against climate change be achieved

Keywords

negotiations; warming; energy transformation; carbon emissions; geopolitical interests; renewable sources

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Suggested citation

Rybachek, V. (2025). Between the ecological perspective and global confrontation: Current results of COP26. Foreign Affairs, 35(3), 89-102. https://doi.org/10.59214/2663-2675.35(3).2025.89