Sushanta Kumar Mahapatra

This article analyses why conditionality persists in climate finance and how it can be redesigned to reconcile effectiveness with climate justice. Building on the principal-agent theory, the political economy of aid conditionality, and distributive and procedural justice frameworks, it conceptualises conditionality as layered governance. Using process tracing of the COP27–COP30 sequence and comparative analysis of finance instruments such as Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETPs) and debt-for-climate swaps, the article shows that outcomes depend on design, concessionality and institutional context. It proposes justice-sensitive reforms that recast conditionality as a cooperative tool for accountability, equity and sustainable development.

• Sushanta Kumar Mahapatra, Madan Meher |
• March-April 2026 |
• Strategic Analysis

Sino-Indian relations were governed by concerns about an unsound bilateral bonhomie, internal as well as external strategic and political considerations, and in addition, national interests and priorities not necessarily oriented towards pacifying the bilateral relations.

• Keshab Chandra Ratha, Sushanta Kumar Mahapatra |
• November 2015 |
• Strategic Analysis

Xi Jinping’s new reformist approach of 2013 is a close reflection of Deng Xiaoping’s prescription of 1978. The Chinese political leadership is tightening its political grip and loosening economic control. China has a tradition of leadership being an economic rightist and a political leftist at the same time. The thesis of Xi Jinping is based upon the conception that one should not use post-reform history to negate the pre-reform years. It also says that one should not ‘exaggerate’ Mao Zedong’s mistakes but should acknowledge his contributions.

• Keshab Chandra Ratha, Sushanta Kumar Mahapatra |
• July 2015 |
• Strategic Analysis