Governance and Multilateral Agreements
The frameworks that govern global economic activity and international environmental governance touch every aspect of our lives – from our internet data privacy, to how countries share knowledge about food, to our ability to buy affordable, safe products in line with social and environmental norms.
While the number of multilateral agreements and governance frameworks abound, they vary on multiple levels. They cover different topics, from monetary policy to international trade, chemicals management to climate change. They have different memberships that do not fully overlap, and each have their own types of obligations. They also have varying legal implications, with some taking a “soft law” approach without enforcement mechanisms, while others take a “hard law” approach with the prospect of sanctions for non-compliance.
At IISD, our work on governance and multilateral agreements involves working with countries, regional and international institutions, academics, and civil society representatives to better understand these systems and their implications for sustainable, inclusive development. We consider issues such as policy coherence and conflict; governance gaps and overlaps; transparency and accountability; and the implications of these frameworks for national and regional policy space. We advise governments, hold expert meetings, participate in international forums, document and analyze negotiations, and conduct in-depth research into trends, reform options, and best practices.
Blog
IISD’s Best of 2025: Publications
As 2025 draws to a close, we’re revisiting our most downloaded publications of the year.
What’s Next for Sustainable Development in 2026
IISD President and CEO, Patricia Fuller, outlines the opportunities and challenges that will shape sustainable development in 2026.
Five Trends That Have Shaped Global Subsidies Over Decades
As we celebrate the Global Subsidies Initiative's 20th anniversary, we asked our experts how thinking on government support has shifted over time.
What Happened at COP 30 on Climate and Health?
Experts from the Friends of Climate and Health explain why human health is relevant to climate policy, and what progress was made at the 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP 30).
How G20 Nations can Make Progress After Group Stalls on Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform
In this year’s Leaders’ Declaration, the G20 failed to restate their commitment to phase out fossil fuel subsidies, yet countries still have credible platforms to move forward collectively.
COP 30 Outcome
Belém left the world divided but spurred momentum on key issues that will continue beyond the conference.
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What Does an Inclusive Global Stocktake Look Like for Civil Society?
The inaugural Global Stocktake will conclude at COP 28 in 2023. With the process well underway, the current and upcoming phases of the Global Stocktake must be open and inclusive in order to succeed.
The State of Global Environmental Governance 2022
Our reporting team explores global environmental diplomacy wins and misses as in-person talks resumed in full force in 2022.
The Global Biodiversity Framework's "30x30" Target: Catchy slogan or effective conservation goal?
In the lead-up to COP 15, we take a closer look at one of the key targets included under the proposed Global Biodiversity Framework.
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Governance and Multilateral Agreements
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