ABSTRACT
The growing recognition that ecological and economic systems are inter-connected has changed the nature of international affairs. Global environmental problems can only be solved if all or at least most nations participate in the creation and implementation of international environmental agreements. This chapter argues that to include incentives, in effect giving developing countries differential treatment, in international environmental agreements will promote universal participation. It shows that there is room for differential treatment in what has most often been a pattern of using uniform rules or egalitarian reciprocity in treaty law. The role of non-governmental organizations in promoting universal participation is growing and they are increasingly being used to assist developing countries in the implementation of environmental treaties. Differential treatment for developing countries is the most effective way to promote universal participation in the formation and implementation of international environmental agreements.
