Abstract: The emergence of Greta Thunberg, a Swedish teenager who became a global icon of climate activism, has sparked intense debates about the politics of environmentalism and the role of youth in shaping public discourse. This critical academic article seeks to explore the politics of Greta Thunberg by examining the discourses and contestations surrounding her activism. Drawing on critical discourse analysis and social movement theory, this article investigates the ways in which Thunberg’s message has been framed, interpreted, and contested by various actors in politics, media, and civil society.

Introduction: The rise of Greta Thunberg as a prominent climate activist has galvanized public attention and mobilized global youth-led movements for climate action. However, her outspoken activism has also attracted fierce criticism and controversy, with some accusing her of being a puppet of political and corporate interests, while others laud her as a visionary leader and a voice for the voiceless. The politics of Greta Thunberg raises important questions about the role of activism in shaping public opinion, the challenges of addressing global environmental crises, and the prospects for social change in an era of political polarization and digital media.

Methodology: This article employs a critical discourse analysis (CDA) approach to examine the discursive strategies, themes, and rhetorical devices used by Greta Thunberg and her supporters, as well as her critics and opponents. In addition, the article draws on social movement theory to analyze the political dynamics of climate activism and the role of youth-led movements in shaping public opinion and policy.

Findings: The analysis reveals a complex and contested terrain of climate politics, characterized by diverse discourses, ideologies, and interests. On one hand, Thunberg’s message of urgent and radical action to address the climate crisis has resonated with millions of people around the world, particularly young people who have mobilized in mass protests and direct actions. On the other hand, her activism has faced significant backlash from conservative politicians, media outlets, and climate skeptics who question the scientific consensus on climate change, challenge the legitimacy of youth-led activism, and accuse Thunberg of being a pawn in a larger political agenda.

Discussion: The politics of Greta Thunberg exemplifies the challenges and opportunities of contemporary environmentalism, which must navigate complex political, social, and cultural contexts. The article argues that Thunberg’s activism reflects a broader trend of youth-led climate movements that challenge established power structures and demand more inclusive and equitable forms of governance. However, the analysis also reveals the limits and contradictions of Thunberg’s message, which tends to prioritize individual responsibility and moral outrage over systemic change and collective action. In addition, the article points to the role of media and digital platforms in shaping the public discourse on climate change, which can both amplify and distort the voices of activists and their opponents.

Conclusion: The politics of Greta Thunberg illustrates the importance of critically examining the discourses and contestations of environmental activism, as well as the power dynamics and interests that shape them. While Thunberg’s activism has brought much-needed attention to the urgency of the climate crisis and the agency of young people, it also highlights the need for more nuanced and inclusive approaches to climate governance and social change. The article concludes by suggesting some implications for future research and practice in environmental politics and youth activism.

Implications for Future Research and Practice: The politics of Greta Thunberg raises several important implications for future research and practice in environmental politics and youth activism. First, it underscores the need for more rigorous and critical analysis of the discourses and power relations that shape climate governance and public opinion. CDA and social movement theory provide useful frameworks for such analysis, but further research is needed to unpack the complexities of climate politics in different contexts and at different scales.

Second, the politics of Thunberg highlights the importance of understanding the agency and diversity of youth-led movements in shaping climate activism and policy. While Thunberg has received much of the media attention and public recognition, there are countless other youth-led initiatives and networks that are driving climate action and innovation around the world. Future research should explore the different strategies and tactics used by these movements, as well as their potential to transform political institutions and norms.

Third, the politics of Thunberg points to the need for more inclusive and participatory approaches to climate governance and decision-making. While Thunberg and other youth activists have been able to galvanize public attention and pressure political leaders to act, their voices are often excluded from formal political processes and institutions. Future research and practice should explore the possibilities and challenges of integrating youth-led perspectives and expertise into climate policy-making, as well as the potential of participatory and deliberative democracy to enhance environmental sustainability and social justice.

Conclusion: The politics of Greta Thunberg is a contested and complex terrain that reflects the broader challenges and opportunities of contemporary environmentalism and youth activism. While her message has inspired millions of people around the world to demand urgent and radical action on climate change, it has also faced significant resistance and criticism from conservative and vested interests. By critically examining the discourses and contestations surrounding Thunberg’s activism, this article highlights the need for more nuanced and inclusive approaches to climate governance and social change. It also points to the potential of youth-led movements to challenge established power structures and demand more accountable and participatory forms of political decision-making.

Ultimately, the politics of Greta Thunberg represents a microcosm of the broader challenges facing environmentalism in the 21st century. As global environmental crises continue to escalate, there is a growing need for innovative and transformative approaches to address them. Youth-led movements, like those inspired by Thunberg, represent a powerful force for change, but they must also navigate complex political and social contexts, as well as the limitations of individual action and moral outrage. By critically examining the discourses and contestations of climate activism, we can better understand the power dynamics and interests that shape environmental governance, as well as the opportunities and challenges of mobilizing collective action for social and environmental justice.

In conclusion, the politics of Greta Thunberg is a critical topic for academic research and public debate, as it raises important questions about the role of youth-led movements, the complexities of climate governance, and the prospects for social change in an era of political polarization and digital media. By continuing to explore and analyze the politics of Thunberg and other environmental activists, we can gain insights into the strategies and tactics used to challenge established power structures and demand more accountable and equitable forms of governance. In doing so, we can contribute to a more sustainable and just future for all.