Public Perceptions and Dynamics of Climate Policy Backlash

Abstract

This panel explores various facets of public perceptions and dynamics surrounding climate policy, shedding light on the complexities of policy backlash, preferences, and the role of framing in shaping public support. The first paper emphasises the urgency of domestic climate action and the risks associated with 'hard' policies. Using fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis, it examines 30 national-scale policies, uncovering intricate combinations of design and context conditions linked to backlash. Conceptually, methodologically, and strategically, the paper enriches theoretical debates and aids policymakers in navigating climate policymaking. The second paper views socio-political backlash as an unfolding process over an extended timeframe. Analysing policy backlash in Australia and Canada, it underscores the centrality of delegitimation. Findings reveal temporal variations and complex causation, emphasising the need to perceive backlash as a process, contributing nuanced insights into post-adoption dynamics. The third paper explores eco-social divides in public preferences in Great Britain, tracking their evolution. Investigating stability and relations to socio-economic and ideological factors, it identifies shifts in group sizes and dynamics. A libertarianism-authoritarianism scale provides insights into group membership structure and seems to influence potential electoral climates. The fourth paper, finally, examines energy policy framing in Norway and its impact on support for renewable energy infrastructure. Assessing various framings, such as energy sovereignty and industrial competitiveness, it explores their effects on public support. Preliminary findings underline the strategic importance of framing energy policy to avoid additional resentment towards renewable energy deployment.

Title	Details
Eco-social divides in public policy preferences: Evidence from Great Britain	View Paper Details
Unraveling the conditions for backlash to climate policy in OECD countries	View Paper Details
From snapshot to unfolding process: Analysing the dynamics of policy backlash	View Paper Details
Don’t say it’s about the climate! How framing can shape (or not) support for renewable energy	View Paper Details