Södertörn Nordic Network on Climate Law and Sustainability

First Annual Conference & Network Meeting of the Södertörn Nordic Network on Climate Law and Sustainability (NCLS)

11–12 June 2026 | Södertörn University, Stockholm

Theme: Rethinking Nordic Climate Leadership in the Era of EU Climate Law and SDGs

Once celebrated as global sustainability frontrunners, Sweden and other Nordic countries now face growing scrutiny over the effectiveness of their climate policies. Anchored in the EU’s 2021 Climate Law and the broader SDG framework, Nordic states have championed ambitious initiatives—ranging from robust climate legislation and adaptation strategies across governance levels to international assistance for developing countries and gender-responsive climate approaches.
Yet persistent challenges—fragmented governance, weak institutional coordination, and limited evaluation mechanisms—raise critical questions about the region’s ability to deliver on SDG 13 and sustain its leadership role.
This conference aims to critically assess Nordic climate strategies within the context of EU climate law and global sustainability targets. It seeks to identify implementation gaps, explore innovative solutions, and offer actionable recommendations to enhance coherence,
accountability, and impact—challenging the narrative of the Nordics as unquestionable sustainability champions.
Key Questions
1. How effectively are Nordic countries aligning their climate policies with EU Climate Law and SDG 13?
2. Are Nordic strategies delivering the “smarter, faster, and more systematic” outcomes envisioned by EU frameworks?
3. How impactful is Nordic cooperation and assistance in climate mitigation and adaptation for developing countries?

If you are interested to participate in the conference, please email to monirul.azam@sh.se with subject line:
“NCLS Conference 2026”

Deadline for submission of abstract: 10 April 2026

Organised with financial support from the Internationalisation Council of the Södertörn University.