Global Solidarity and Cosmopolitanism in the Climate Crisis: Insights from Fridays for Future Germany

Climate change refers to long-term changes in temperature and seasonal patterns. Although climate change can occur naturally due to heat from the sun or volcanic eruptions, since the 1800s, human activity has been the main factor in climate change, mainly caused by the use of fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas (United Nations, n.d.). The climate change also caused several natural phenomena such as flood, drought, tornado, and abrasion which harm the living things (Subarkah, 2023). To tackle this, countries need to cooperate and adapting various policy to decrease the greenhouse gas emission and switch to cleaner and more sustainable energy. One example is reflected in the Paris Agreement which was signed by 195 countries in 2015 as an embodiment of international cooperation in dealing with the climate crisis (Imperial College London Grantham Institute, n.d.).

Since the beginning industrial revolution human activities have emerged as the primary drivers of contemporary climate change. By 2023, the average global temperature, encompassing both terrestrial and oceanic surfaces, is projected to be approximately 1.2 degrees Celsius higher than the 20th century average. Global temperatures are consistently among the highest in recorded history. The resultant warming induces multifaceted consequences, including the elevation of sea levels, diminishing Arctic ice, and a surge in the frequency of climate-related catastrophes, thereby challenging human resilience and adaptability (Salas, 2024).

Germany is increasingly experiencing the effects of climate change. Historically reliant on fossil fuels, particularly petroleum and natural gas, Germany has consequently become one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases in Europe (Statista Research Department, 2024). In 2008, the German energy sector’s reliance on various sources was as follows: approximately 35% depended on fossil oil, 22% on natural gas, 13% on coal, 12% on nuclear energy, 11% on brown coal/lignite, and 7% on renewable energy. Notably, one-third of Germany’s energy imports, predominantly natural gas, were sourced from Russia (Kementerian Luar Negeri Indonesia, n.d.). Given its dependence on non-renewable energy, Germany is experiencing negative impacts, including an increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as floods, heatwaves, and droughts.

To address these challenges, Germany has implemented several key measures to mitigate climate change through the “Energiewende” initiative. This long-term policy aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2045. Germany’s commitment to the Energiewende, the transition towards zero greenhouse gas emissions, is codified in the Climate Change Law, which establishes targets for reducing emissions by 65% by 2030 and at least 88% by 2040, relative to 1990 levels. Additionally, Germany aims to achieve negative emissions by 2050 through the use of natural carbon sinks such as trees and soil. The original net-zero target was set for 2050, but in 2021, it was accelerated to 2045 following a ruling by the German Constitutional Court that parts of the previous law were unconstitutional due to the undue burden it placed on future generations (Agora Energiewende, 2024).

Nevertheless, several activists and environmental experts argue that these measures are insufficient to address the escalating impacts of the climate crisis. Frequent floods, increasingly intense heat waves, and shifting weather patterns are tangible examples of the severe consequences already being experienced by the people of Germany (Amelang, 2018). A notable instance of the climate crisis in Germany is the massive floods that struck the Rhineland in 2021. These floods caused extensive damage and significant loss of life, starkly highlighting the urgent need to address the climate crisis confronting the nation (Windsheimer & Schobert, n.d.). Aside from that, ambitious emissions targets frequently encounter resistance from industrial and political sectors with divergent interests (OECD, n.d.) (bne IntelliNews, 2024).

In the perspective of cosmopolitan, climate change is considered as a global threat necessitating collective action from the international community. Given that no nation is impervious to its effects, fostering global solidarity is imperative (Bernstein, 2019). Cosmopolitanism, derived from the Greek terms “kosmos” (world) and “polites” (citizen), embodies the notion of being a “citizen of the world.” This concept emphasizes the necessity of solidarity and collective responsibility that transcends national and geographical boundaries.

Global solidarity refers to a profound sense of unity and shared obligation among individuals across diverse countries and cultures. It acknowledges the interconnectedness of human experiences and calls for cooperative efforts in addressing common challenges to enhance the well-being of humanity. This solidarity is exemplified through international cooperation, social movements, and humanitarian initiatives (Kidd, 2022).

Cosmopolitanism, as a form of global solidarity, highlights the importance of global citizenship and the shared responsibility for the well-being of all individuals. This perspective considers global solidarity as an essential component of global citizenship, where individuals recognize their interconnectedness and cooperate to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation (Kurasawa, 2007). David Held argues that despite the international negotiation processes, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement, have been imperfect, collective action remains the only feasible path to ensuring human progress. He further emphasizes the necessity of developing a dynamic global climate governance ecosystem (Held & Roger, 2018).

Fridays For Future (FFF), initiated by Greta Thunberg in 2018, exemplifies the practical application of cosmopolitan principles to climate activism. This youth-led movement underscores the critical role of collective action and global solidarity in addressing the climate crisis. Greta’s initial solitary protest in front of the Swedish parliament, where she demonstrated daily for three weeks to highlight the inadequate response to the climate emergency, garnered significant attention. The movement quickly gained traction online through the hashtag #FridaysForFuture, leading to the mobilization of millions of participants in FFF actions globally (Fridays For Future USA, n.d.).

Their appeal for action ignited a global movement, uniting students and activists across various countries in demonstrations outside local parliament buildings and city halls halls (Fridays For Future, n.d.). Germany has emerged as one of the states most significantly impacted by the FFF movement. Within Germany, this social movement has expanded rapidly, establishing itself as a prominent force in climate advocacy. Through consistent protests, strategic social media campaigns, and international collaboration, FFF in Germany aims to exert pressure on the government and major corporations to implement concrete measures for reducing emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources (Siebler, Schmidt, SCHÜRMANN, & Gonzatti, 2023).

FFF in Germany is not just a local movement, but part of a global network working together for the same goal. Global solidarity in their actions shows the application of the principles of cosmopolitanism in overcoming the climate crisis. This can be seen from their participation in global climate action, cross-border support, and efforts to gain international support (Amelang & Nijhuis, 2023).

As one of the developed countries with influence in international climate policy, Germany’s role in overcoming the climate crisis is very important. Therefore, studying how global solidarity and cosmopolitanism are implemented in the FFF movement in Germany can provide important insights into effective ways to promote climate policy change and action at national and international levels. This research aims to examine the forms of global solidarity in this movement and how the principles of cosmopolitanism are articulated and practiced in their actions.

Discussion

The FFF movement in Germany has demonstrated a strong implementation of the principles of cosmopolitanism. Their actions and campaigns that not only focus on local policies, but also take part in larger global movements. For example, the FFF in Germany often organizes large protests on the same days as other countries around the world, creating a ripple effect that increases awareness and pressure on global governments to take action on climate change. This shows that they understand the climate crisis is a global problem that requires a joint response from various countries (Fridays For Future, n.d.).

The application of cosmopolitan principles is evident in FFF’s strategic use of digital platforms and social media. These tools are employed to mobilize international support, disseminate information, and galvanize action across multiple countries. By leveraging hashtags such as #FridaysForFuture and #ClimateStrike, the movement has successfully cultivated a robust network of global solidarity. This interconnectedness not only enables mutual support among participants but also amplifies their collective demands for more stringent climate action (Fernández-Zubieta, Guevara, Roldan, & Robles, 2023).

Additionally, FFF in Germany frequently collaborates with international environmental and human rights organizations, demonstrating their commitment to the values of cosmopolitanism. This collaboration not only strengthened their movement in Germany but also provided support to similar movements in other countries, creating a mutually reinforcing global network of solidarity (Hasselbach, 2024).

The international support built by the FFF has had a major influence on climate policy in Germany. The pressure from their protests and campaigns pushed the German government to take stronger action to reduce emissions and increase the use of renewable energy. For example, after a series of large protests in 2019, the German government announced a new climate policy package that included more ambitious emissions reduction targets and increased investment in renewable energy (Marquardt, 2020).

In addition, the international support shown by FFF has changed the public’s view of the climate crisis. By involving various groups such as students, academics and professionals, this movement has succeeded in increasing awareness of the importance of dealing with the climate crisis collectively. The mass media in Germany also began to focus more on this issue due to the influence of the FFF’s actions, which in turn influenced public opinion and broadened support for stronger climate policies (Christofaro, 2022) (Nijhuis, 2021).

The influence of global solidarity is also reflected in the increasing cooperation between countries to face the climate crisis. FFF in Germany is often present at international climate conferences and meetings, such as the UN Climate Change Conference or Conference of the Parties (COP), where they present their demands and establish partnerships with climate movements from other countries (Thew, Karsgaard, Marquardt, Rist, & Yona, 2021). This shows how global solidarity can strengthen pressure on governments and international bodies to act more decisively in addressing the climate crisis.

Despite numerous achievements, FFF in Germany continues to confront various challenges in sustaining and expanding global solidarity. A significant obstacle lies in the divergent national priorities and policies that can impede international cooperation. Countries’ climate policy priorities often vary based on their distinct economic, political, and social contexts, which can obstruct efforts to formulate a cohesive global response (Marquardt, 2020).

In addition, resistance from fossil fuel-dependent industries and climate change-skeptical community groups presents additional hurdles. Industries with substantial political and economic clout, such as the coal industry lobby in Germany, can thwart initiatives aimed at emission reduction and the transition to renewable energy. Another challenge involves sustaining the movement’s momentum and the active engagement of its members and supporters. Achieving global solidarity necessitates long-term commitment and continuous coordination, which is challenging to maintain, particularly under internal and external pressures. Therefore, FFF must persist in innovating its strategies and adopting a cosmopolitan approach to ensure sustained high levels of support and participation from communities worldwide.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that FFF in Germany has succeeded in applying the principles of cosmopolitanism in their activities, showing strong global solidarity in facing the climate crisis. The results of this research show that global solidarity can play an important role in influencing policy change and increasing public awareness. The global solidarity demonstrated through FFF actions and campaigns in Germany has had a major impact on national climate policy and public perception. Despite facing many challenges, the success of FFF shows the great potential of youth-led movements to bring positive change at the global level. The FFF movement in Germany clearly reflects the idea of cosmopolitanism, especially in terms of global solidarity and collective responsibility towards the climate crisis. Cosmopolitanism emphasizes the importance of seeing oneself as part of a global community, where each individual is responsible for the well-being of the entire world, not just the local or national community.