The Norwegian International Climate and Forest Initiative : an analysis of the process and motivations of policy making

Abstract

REDD+ is perceived to be the among the most appropriate measures available for the collective effort to reduce global emissions, due to expectations of cost-efficiency, quick reductions of emissions, and multiple benefits. The NICFI is intended to be Norway’s contribution to REDD+, with the common goal of stabilizing global temperatures. This thesis seeks to assess the process that lead to the NICFI, and to investigate possible motivations for this policy. As REDD+ increased in importance internationally, and the Norwegian government was under domestic pressure to contribute, the NICFI was initiated. The NICFI is perceived to have been important to the international development of REDD+. The Norwegian government has a pronounced goal of Norway being an environmental pioneer. Based on what I argue is an identity as an altruistic donor, one perceives the NICFI to be altruistically motivated. However, I argue that there are several spin-off effects that may benefit Norway, among them the possibility for offsetting and improved relationships with developing countries. I also argue that Norway has an interest in reproducing its positive identity, and that there are indications of Norway seeking status related to climate issues.