The Perception Divide: Exploring European and African Actors’ Views of the EU’s Climate Leadership at COP27

Abstract: This study investigates the European Union’s self-perception as a global climate leader and contrasts it with the underrepresented African perspective on the EU’s role in international climate negotiations. Using a role-theoretical framework, the research analyses different leadership types and qualities, comparing European and African perceptions of the EU’s involvement in multilateral climate change negotiations. Interviews from the 2022 climate negotiations in Egypt (COP27) reveal a discrepancy between the EU’s self-perception and African actors’ views. European perceptions depict a positive image of the EU’s climate leadership, while African actors consider the EU as self-glorifying with limited insight into African needs. African actors criticise the EU’s perceived lack of commitment to addressing the challenges faced by Africa and other developing countries. However, they acknowledge the EU’s significant role in climate politics due to its economic power and diplomatic capacities. The EU’s increased flexibility and responsiveness at COP27 is seen as a potential move toward a more inclusive climate diplomacy approach. The research emphasises the importance of bridging perception gaps and fostering mutual understanding to enhance the EU’s climate leadership effectiveness globally.