ABSTRACT
It does not suffice to create ambitious international institutions for environmental protection – these also need to be implemented in practice. How can policy ensure, through appropriate institutional design, that the implementation of global agreements is monitored adequately and – if necessary – non-compliance sanctioned? Here three elements need to be considered:
Suitable procedures and mechanisms for collecting information on the status of implementation.
Appropriate procedures for assessing reports and other findings and for engaging in initial debate on international responses to implementational deficits.
Tools by which to respond to any difficulties or implementation deficits identified.
