Climate, Inequality, and Democratic Action: The Force of Political Emotions

Evidence suggests that emotions play a fundamental role in political participation and communication. It is therefore crucial to comprehend and appropriately address citizens’ emotional needs and reactions to climate policies to achieve coordinated democratic action. The EU-funded CIDAPE project will research the interplay between citizen engagement, climate change and inequalities. By investigating the role of emotions in shaping rational argumentation and engagement, the project aims to gain insights into how people comprehend, and actively respond to, climate change challenges. CIDAPE reveals political action mechanisms and puts forth tools, policy instruments and guides. It underscores the climate crisis as a unique opportunity to foster solidarity and achieve depolarisation in the public debate, emphasising the importance of public trust, robust institutions and policies that resonate with citizens.