A Critical Discourse Analysis of Statements on Climate Action and Cooperation at COP27

This dissertation looked at “what we talk about when we talk about climate change,” comparing the discourses used by fossil fuel producers, those most vulnerable to climate change, and ENGOs at climate change negotiations. Using a critical discourse analysis, the research found a difference in discourse between these groups as well as within the groups based on if the actor was a party or an observer to the UNFCCC. Parties, both fossil fuel producers and those most vulnerable, often employed green governmentality and ecological modernization discourses. Fossil fuel observers used energy security discourses. ENGOs, as well as some vulnerable parties employed climate justice and populist discourses.