23 Santes-Alvarez, R.V.(2013). The Politics of Climate Change in Mexico: Initial Steps towards Effective Governance. JOAAG, Vol. 8. No. 1 The Politics of Climate Change in Mexico: Initial Steps towardsEffective Governance Ricardo V.Santes-Alvarez 1 Abstract The centralised style in the working of Mexico’s political and institutional structures signifies an erroneous approach to the resolution of climate change (CC). Subnational governments share responsibilities for climate alterations. This paper addresses the politics of CC in Mexico, focusing on three aspects: the broad national scenario, the institutional framework and reforms at the federal level, and the role of local governments. The results reveal that the National Strategy on Climate Change (NSCC) sets the groundwork for the operation of federal institutions; however, state and municipal governments remain playing an insignificant role. The researcher concludes that Mexico should favour a plural perspective of governance, where national and subnational governments collaborate on CC mitigation and adaptation measures. Further, Mexico should adopt a vision of integrity and commitment to the objectives of social progress and sustainability of resources that support human needs. Keywords: Climate change politics, environmental governance, Mexico, National Strategy on Climate Change 1 Researcher. Department of Urban and Environmental Studies, El Colegio de la Frontera Norte. Tijuana, B.C., Mexico. Email: rsantes@colef.mx