Pak Yin Choi

My decision to pursue an MSc in European and International Public Policy at the European Institute was a strategic choice, rooted in my commitment to shaping global governance and climate policy. During my time at the European Institute, I had the privilege of being mentored by experts who deepened my understanding of critical thinking and rational analysis. Their wisdom became my compass, guiding me towards disciplined research on the crucial role of trust in climate diplomacy between the EU and China.

A cornerstone of my academic journey was my master's dissertation, “The Role of Trusting Relations in Climate Diplomacy: An Empirical Analysis on Climate Cooperation between the EU and China”. Under the guidance of Dr. Mareike Kleine, I explored how trust fosters cooperation between these global powers, laying the foundation for sustainable climate partnerships.

Bridging theory with practice, I joined the United Nations Environment Programme Geneva Office as an Environmental Affairs Intern. There, I contributed to policy analysis, monitoring, and evaluation, and provided technical support for initiatives focused on the green economic transition, funded by European governments and other key donors.

Subsequently, I served as an Early Careers Trainee for 1t.org China Action at the World Economic Forum Beijing Representative Office. In this role, I had the privilege of helping to organize the 14th Annual Meeting of the New Champions in Tianjin, China. I also co-authored a policy report on reshaping territorial spatial planning in China, contributing to strategic discussions on land use and sustainability.

Today, as a Project Engagement Specialist in Sustainability & Innovation, I support the development of Public-Private-Philanthropic Partnerships for climate and nature solutions across Hong Kong SAR and Asia. This work, part of the World Economic Forum’s Giving to Amplify Earth Action (GAEA) initiative, enables me to design collaborative efforts among capital stack leaders, unlocking catalytic funding at speed and scale. These efforts accelerate the transition to sustainable business practices and ignite a deep-rooted systems transformation.

The European Institute has been a guiding force throughout my career, shaping my dedication to global climate cooperation. From my early days of academic research to the practical application of climate diplomacy, the principles I learned—cooperation and trust-based partnerships—have consistently guided me. As the climate crisis escalates, I am driven to foster international collaborations that are not only necessary but urgent. Today, I am more determined than ever to advance these principles on the global stage, turning our collective efforts into meaningful, lasting impact.

Pak Yin is happy to connect on LinkedIn.