Responsibility for global sustainability is shared among multiple actors, making it one of the most complex issues in global politics. In the IB Global Politics course, sustainability is not treated as the duty of a single group but as a collective responsibility shaped by power, capacity, and historical contribution. The key debate centres on who should do the most, who has the ability to act, and who bears the costs.
States hold primary responsibility for global sustainability because they create laws, regulate economies, and represent populations internationally. Governments decide environmental standards, energy policy, land use, and investment priorities. Wealthier states, in particular, have greater capacity to invest in sustainable technologies and reduce emissions. In IB analysis, states are central because they possess legal authority and policy-making power.
However, responsibility among states is unequal. Developed states have historically contributed far more to environmental degradation through industrialisation and high consumption. Developing states argue that it is unjust to expect them to bear the same burdens when they have contributed least and still face poverty. This creates the principle of differentiated responsibility, where those with greater historical impact and resources are expected to lead.
Multinational corporations also bear significant responsibility. Many corporations have environmental footprints larger than those of some states. Their decisions affect resource extraction, production methods, and global supply chains. While corporations can contribute to sustainability through innovation and responsible practices, profit incentives often limit voluntary action. IB Global Politics highlights the need for regulation to ensure corporate accountability.
International institutions play a coordinating role. Global sustainability challenges cross borders, requiring cooperation and shared frameworks. Institutions facilitate dialogue, set targets, and support cooperation between states. However, their effectiveness is limited by state sovereignty and unequal power. They can guide action, but they cannot enforce sustainability independently.
Individuals and civil society also have responsibilities. Consumer choices, political pressure, and grassroots activism can influence policy and corporate behaviour. While individual action alone cannot solve global problems, collective societal pressure can drive change. In IB analysis, individuals matter most when they act politically rather than only as consumers.
A key challenge is responsibility without enforcement. While many actors acknowledge sustainability goals, short-term interests, inequality, and lack of accountability often prevent meaningful action. Those most affected by environmental harm are frequently the least responsible and least powerful, raising serious questions of global justice.
For IB Global Politics students, strong answers argue that global sustainability requires shared but differentiated responsibility. States must lead, corporations must be regulated, institutions must coordinate, and societies must apply pressure. Sustainability will only be achievable when responsibility aligns with power, capacity, and justice rather than being shifted onto those least able to act.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who has the main responsibility for global sustainability?
States have the primary responsibility because they make laws and policies. However, responsibility is shared among many actors. IB answers should emphasise state leadership with shared roles.
Do developed countries have greater responsibility?
Yes, due to historical emissions and greater resources. This supports differentiated responsibility. IB students should link this to global justice.
Are corporations responsible for sustainability?
Yes, corporations have major environmental impacts. Regulation is often necessary to ensure accountability. IB analysis should link corporate power to responsibility.
Can individuals make a real difference?
Individually, impact is limited, but collectively individuals can influence politics and policy. Civil society pressure matters. IB answers should avoid overstating consumer action alone.
How should this topic be answered in exams?
Students should identify multiple actors and evaluate responsibility based on power and capacity. Linking sustainability to justice strengthens answers. Balanced judgement leads to higher marks.
