Dag Harald Claes

Dag Harald Claes is a Professor II in Political Science at the Department of Economics and Social Sciences at Molde University College in Norway. His extensive academic career focuses on energy policy, international political economy, and global energy governance, with particular expertise in oil markets, OPEC dynamics, EU energy security frameworks, and Arctic hydrocarbon development.

Claes's research spans the political dimensions of energy markets, examining how resource politics intersect with international institutions and geopolitical dynamics. His work covers oil market governance, international energy organizations, geopolitical implications of energy transitions, and the evolving relationship between producer and consumer nations. He has made significant scholarly contributions to understanding OPEC-Norway relations, the financialization of oil markets, and the complex geopolitical landscape of Arctic oil and gas development. His research bridges theoretical political science with practical policy analysis, providing critical insights into how energy resources shape international relations and domestic policy frameworks.

Analysis of Claes's recent publications reveals a clear evolution in his research focus, moving from traditional energy security concerns toward more complex analyses of energy transitions, market financialization, and the geopolitical implications of climate policy. His work demonstrates consistent engagement with both historical perspectives on energy politics and contemporary challenges, particularly the tension between fossil fuel dependence and climate commitments. The recurring themes across his publications include institutional analysis of energy governance, geopolitical competition over resources, and the political economy of energy transitions.

Claes has been actively involved in scholarly collaborations and editorial projects, contributing to numerous academic journals and edited volumes in political science and energy studies. His work as a contributor to reference works like Store norske leksikon on topics including OPEC and IEA demonstrates his recognized expertise in these areas. He has also engaged with public discourse through media contributions to outlets like Aftenposten, addressing timely energy policy issues for broader audiences.