Leading the way in just transition

The concept of a just transition, ensuring no one is left behind in the shift to low-carbon and sustainable economies, is now central to policymaking. Fairly distributing the costs and benefits of this transition is especially critical in the post-pandemic recovery, where inequalities and economic risks have deepened.

The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) is a driving force behind the European Green and Social Deal, with just transition as its core principle. We support the Just Transition Mechanism, the European Commission’s tool to aid regions reliant on fossil fuels in navigating the social and economic challenges of sustainability. However, we need a more comprehensive, cohesive EU policy framework as the next crucial step.

In 2023, the EESC’s ad hoc group on the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) contributed to the Just Transition Work Programme ( JTWP) by directly influencing the positions of EU Member States and the Commission. That same year, we adopted an opinion with over 70 proposals, including the creation of  a  Just Transition Observatory to provide critical data, ensure accountability, enhance coordination and protect the most vulnerable during the transition.

Responding to our call, the European Commission’s DG Employment confirmed that they were working on establishing the observatory.

At the informal meeting of environment ministers in January 2024, marking the Council’s first dedicated discussion on just transition, we presented our proposals to the Member States. By June 2024, the Council’s conclusions on the mid-term review of the 8th Environment Action Programme incorporated several of our recommendations, urging the Commission to mainstream just transition into EU policies and the Member States to integrate it into their national strategies.

Looking ahead

As the just transition debate advances, we continue to push for an integrated approach, advocating robust policies that ensure a fair and equitable transition to sustainable economies.

A just transition policy framework should prioritize environmental sustainability, social values, and a sustainable economy that promotes well-being within planetary boundaries. Rudy De Leeuw, EESC member

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