What political constraints might influence decisions on global warming?

Answer 1

In a democracy, governments often face hostile oppositions keen to take advantage of short term opportunities to defeat the government on almost any issue. The government may have to negotiate with members of the opposition even where it regards the issue as a matter of high principle. And if negotiation fails, then compromise or failure are the options. So even if the government has the support of a majority of the people on this issue, it may still be unable to enact its preferred agenda.

Another constraint is the need to consider the views of vested interests that are likely to oppose any decision of global warming. Although an oil company may not directly influence many votes, political parties often depend on corporations like these for political funding. Furthermore, governments realise that if a corporation sees advantage in doing so, it can undertake sophisticated campaigns to influence public opinion to the disadvantage of the government.

Answer 2

Political constraints on global warming decisions may include differing priorities among political parties or governments, the influence of powerful industry lobby groups, hesitance to implement unpopular policies that may affect economic growth or jobs, and the challenge of achieving international cooperation and agreement on climate action.