Politics and Climate Action: Power, Coalitions, and Making Change Happen

​Event Description

Climate solutions are often framed as technical challenges, focused on innovation, finance, and implementation. Yet one of the most decisive factors in whether climate action succeeds or fails is often overlooked: politics.

This session explores politics as the missing layer in climate and systems change efforts. How do political incentives, leadership, and narratives shape what is possible, from clean energy transitions to climate justice and access to resources?

We will examine what it takes to build political buy-in, align with government priorities, and embed solutions within existing systems so they can be sustained and scaled. The discussion will also explore how to form effective coalitions across sectors, navigating tensions, risks, and competing interests in complex and often polarized environments.

At the same time, the session will consider the power of narratives in shaping political will. What stories enable action on climate and justice, and how can they be reframed to unlock urgency and support?

Bringing together practitioners, policymakers, and coalition builders, this conversation will focus on how to move from technical solutions to politically viable, durable change.

Speakers

• ​Meredith Hess is Strategic Development Lead at Project Dandelion, advancing partnerships and growth for climate and gender initiatives.

• ​Miri Muntean is Co-Executive Director of the Access to Medicines Initiative, advancing contraceptive access and health systems strengthening in Nigeria.

• ​Kanksshi Agarwal is a German Chancellor Fellow at Better Politics Foundation, advancing women’s political leadership at the intersection of technology, climate, and governance.

​Discussion Questions
Why is politics often overlooked in climate and systems change conversations?
How can organizations build political buy-in and align with government incentives?
What makes coalitions effective in complex and politically sensitive contexts?
How do narratives shape political will and public support for climate action?