Study finds that extreme weather events do not draw political attention

A decade-long study in nine European countries analysed the political response to fatal extreme weather events and found consistent climate neglect

Political parties do not prioritise environmental issues following extreme weather events, a new study has found. Analysing more than 2,60,000 press releases from 68 parties in nine countries in Europe throughout 2010–2020, the study found only short-lived effects for Green parties.

The study examined if, following extreme weather occurrences, political parties give environmental issues more attention. Extreme weather exposure has the potential to increase awareness of environmental changes. But the study’s goal was to pinpoint the ways in which these occasions affect politicians’ actions. 

The study used data on storms, floods, wildfires and spells of extreme temperatures to measure the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. These are the kinds of events that increase with climate change and invite a political response, the study said. 

Lack of political climate action: A worrying trend

The results—which revealed that political parties barely act as required to fight climate change— are concerning because of the following reasons. 

First, this study focused on Europe, where policymakers and voters have long been sensitised about environmental issues, according to the study. So climate neglect in such a region is worrying. 

Then, in order to strengthen the signal for immediate action, researchers concentrated on exceptionally severe extreme weather occurrences that caused fatalities. Despite the extent of damage, the silence of political parties is troubling.

Third, political speech—which elicits reactions more quickly than legislation—was examined in the study. And lastly, the study covered a wide range of environmental concerns so that different parties may respond in different ways. However, in all circumstances, there was no indication of a response. 

The need for a stronger political will

Extreme weather occurrences become more frequent and severe as a result of climate change. Therefore, political will to address the effects of climate change is necessary. The study emphasised that it is the responsibility of political leaders to prioritise environmental issues and uphold this commitment in the wake of catastrophic weather disasters, when people tend to be more worried about relief than with long-term prevention and overemphasise these recent and salient experiences.

The research moved beyond focusing on the consequences of extreme weather events for voters by shedding light on how parties react to extreme weather events. Highly visible extreme weather events can affect people’s beliefs about climate change and how they vote, the study said. Politicians may undervalue the real support for climate change initiatives due to this limited influence, or parties may not be motivated to prioritise these conversations, added the study.

The study mentioned how in the United States, a correlation has been found between temperature anomalies and climate change bill sponsorship among Democrats, whereas linking wildfires to climate change might backfire for Republicans.

Citing other example, the study said that political parties in the United Kingdom benefit electorally from discussing climate change in the aftermath of extreme weather events, suggesting this strategy can gain votes in Europe. 

The study tested the evidence outside the United States, where most studies on this topic have been conducted so far. The findings declared that even fatal extreme weather events are not increasing attention to the issue of climate change and suggested more policy intervention in climate action.

About The Author

Editorial Team

A team of handpicked and dedicated writers committed to fact check each climate-related statement. Go to the roots and intent of each policy implemented, internationally and at home to help you understand climate better

See author's posts