The Transformation of the “Leader” in Global Environmental Governance:

    Abstract: Canada was long a model for leadership in global environmental governance among developed Western states. While it has traditionally participated enthusiastically in global climate governance, in recent years it has started lagging behind in climate talks. What exactly is the reason for this change?

    Through a multi-layered analysis that considers domestic and international and economics and politics, this article finds that in addition to the influence of the United States, changes in the domestic economic situation and political institutions in Canada are the main reasons for its shift in strategy. Since the 1990s, the heavy development of oil sands and crude oil exports (and especially reliance on the American market) has caused a deterioration of Canada’s position with respect to climate talks, while lobbying by related interest groups in Canada’s decentralized federal system has resulted in a shift in Canadian policy on climate change. In sum, the interaction between evolving economic interests and Canada’s unique policy institutions have determined Canada’s strategy with respect to climate and the environment. To a certain extent, this case also refutes the argument that developed democracies are destined to become staunch supporters of global environmental governance because of their political institutions. 