Raw Materials and International Relations

Abstract: This paper examines the role of raw materials in international relations, analysing areas of cooperation and conflict. It provides an overview of the changing global geopolitical landscape with the rise of the BRICs and the growing demand and competition over access. It then offers an analysis of emerging new scarcities and challenges linked to the resource nexus, making a case for the inclusion of a natural resource use perspective into global climate agreements and sustainable development goals. The paper presents examples of existing partnerships and initiatives, and concludes by arguing for a more coordinated and effective international resource governance. We also give an outlook on future challenges and some recommendations for international policy and academic research