Climate responsibility as a new ‘standard of civilization’ in international society? The case of the Arctic region in 2035

This article combines the English School theory of International Relations with the Futures Studies methodology to explore alternative ways in which climate responsibility could emerge as a new ‘standard of civilization’ in international society by 2035. It seeks to spur outside-the-box thinking about what the ‘content’ of climate responsibility could or should look like in the future. Drawing on insights from expert interviews and an online stakeholder panel, it produces three scenarios located in the Arctic. The scenarios are: (1) ‘Greed for climate business: A green transition with winners and losers’; (2) ‘Tackling climate insecurity: A green transition that enhances human well-being’; and (3) ‘Hope for planetary well-being: A green transition of multispecies harmony’. They address key normative and structural changes required for climate-responsible international societies. Ultimately, the article demonstrates that, against the odds, the English School is ideal for exploring future trajectories in international relations, especially when combined with the creative methods of Futures Studies.