Clara Brandi

Professor Clara Brandi is a leading academic at the University of Bonn's Department of Economics, holding a professorship in International Economics/Development Economics since September 2022. She simultaneously serves as Head of the Research Department 'Transformation of Economic and Social Systems' at the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) since December 2020. Her extensive academic background includes a PhD from the European University Institute, an M.Phil. in Politics from the University of Oxford, and a Diplom in Economics from Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg.

Prof. Brandi's research focuses span International Economics, Development Economics, Environmental Economics, Political Economy, Transformation to Sustainability, and Global Governance with particular emphasis on trade, climate, energy, and sustainable development. Her work bridges theoretical frameworks with practical policy implications, examining how trade agreements can better address environmental concerns, how sustainability standards interact with development goals, and how global governance structures can be reformed for greater effectiveness. She has made significant contributions to understanding the interlinkages between voluntary sustainability standards and due diligence mechanisms, climate finance innovation, and the design of trade agreements that seriously incorporate climate considerations.

Her scholarly output demonstrates a clear trajectory toward increasingly integrated approaches connecting trade policy, climate action, and sustainable development. Recent publications show her deepening engagement with climate finance mechanisms like 'climate impact auctions,' the role of trade provisions in advancing environmental goals, and the complex interplay between voluntary sustainability standards and mandatory due diligence requirements. This evolution reflects the growing urgency of addressing climate change through multiple governance channels while ensuring development priorities are not compromised.

• Scientific Advisory Board of the project 'ENTICE – Enhanced understanding of Trade Impacts on the Climate and the Environment' (since 2025)
• ADBI Advisory Council 2024-2026
• Economic Advisory Network of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (since 2023)
• Price Committee of the KfW Promotion Prize (since 2023)
• Evaluation Working Group of the Johannes-Rau Research Association (since 2023)
• Scientific Advisory Board for Program Evaluation of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (since 2022)
• Co-Chair of the VSS Academic Advisory Council (since 2020)

Prof. Brandi's advisory work demonstrates significant influence in shaping policy discussions at national and international levels. Her engagement with the German Federal Ministry, international research councils, and development institutions reflects her standing as a trusted expert at the intersection of trade, climate, and development policy. Her research often informs practical policy recommendations, particularly regarding how trade agreements can better incorporate environmental and climate considerations without disadvantaging developing countries.

Through her dual affiliation with the University of Bonn and IDOS, Prof. Brandi bridges academic research with policy-relevant analysis, contributing to both scholarly debates and practical governance solutions for the most pressing global challenges of our time.