Democracy in the Balance: Climate, Conflict, and the Politics of Sustainable Development

As the climate crisis intensifies, democratic systems are under mounting strain – from rising populism and polarization to eroding trust in institutions. But democracy remains a critical foundation for addressing the complex and contested politics of sustainability. From fossil fuel subsidies to green industrial policies, climate action is reshaping political agendas, electoral dynamics, and the boundaries of state intervention. This Open Conversation will explore how democracy is both challenged by, and essential to, the pursuit of sustainable development. Can democratic systems deliver the urgent transformations required by climate science? Or are they too slow, fragmented, and conflict-ridden to respond effectively? How do electoral incentives align (or conflict) with long-term sustainability goals? And what happens when climate policy becomes deeply politicized across partisan lines? The panel will examine how participatory politics, civic engagement, and institutional design shape responses to environmental and social crises. Rather than seeking consensus, the discussion will argue for embracing democratic conflict as a vital mechanism for negotiating trade-offs, redistributing power, and building resilience in the face of systemic uncertainty. Panel Dr. Margherita de Candia, Lecturer in Political Science Education, King's College London Professor Dan Banik, Academic Director, Circle U. Knowledge Hub on Democracy Christina Bu, Secretary General, Norwegian EV Association Torbjørn Røe Isaksen, Political Editor, E24 Arve Hansen, Research Professor at the Centre for Development and the Environment Juliana Vårvik, Student, UiO Marthe Landmark, Student, UiO