U.S. Climate Policy Under Scrutiny

Mary Robinson, former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, has voiced her concerns over the United States’ current approach to climate change. Speaking on the Euronews podcast “Radio Schuman,” Robinson criticized U.S. leadership, particularly under former President Donald Trump, noting that the U.S. stands at a critical juncture.

Robinson pointed to Trump’s decision on his first day in office to withdraw from the Paris climate agreement, a significant global initiative aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, she highlighted the Trump administration’s efforts to diminish climate research, including the dismissal of hundreds of scientists involved in the National Climate Assessment.

Opportunities for the European Union

In light of the U.S. climate policy setbacks, Robinson emphasized the potential for the European Union to strengthen its leadership in combating climate change. She stated, “The E.U. now has an opportunity, because the United States is being badly led on climate, actually stupidly led on climate.”

Robinson acknowledged that while the EU has been slower to act, the focus should be on fostering effective leadership rather than rushing decisions. She remarked, “It’s better to get good leadership than rush leadership.”

Recently, Robinson met with officials from the EU as part of her role in The Elders, a group of global leaders advocating for positive change. She urged European officials to take decisive steps, stating, “The E.U. should step up on climate and nature and fulfill the commitments that are necessary.”

Political Challenges Ahead

Robinson’s concerns are echoed by environmental groups as congressional Republicans in the U.S. move to scale back significant climate legislation. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) faces threats from a GOP megabill, which includes provisions to retract billions of dollars allocated for climate initiatives. This shift has drawn sharp criticism from advocates for climate action.

The House Energy and Commerce Committee has already approved measures that would roll back unspent funds from IRA programs, while other committees are pursuing the repeal of clean energy incentives established by this framework.