Advancing the EU's just transition policy framework: what measures are necessary?

Scope and objectives

On 5 October 2023, the EESC will host a public hearing in the context of its ongoing opinion work on Advancing the EU's just transition policy framework: what measures are necessary requested by the incoming Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU.

The hearing aims to gather the views of different practitioners, institutions and civil society representatives on the steps the EU should take to establish a comprehensive, just transition policy framework.

The invited speakers and participants will discuss:

• how to enable a green and just transition;
• the ILO guidelines on just transition and their concrete application;
• how to advance the EU's just transition policy framework;
• the intergenerational dimension;
• proposals from the business sector.

This event will be webstreamed and viewers will have the opportunity to send questions live via Slido using the code #JustTransition.

Interpretation: EN DE FR

Context

The European Green Deal states that the green transition must put people first and pay attention to the regions, industries and workers facing the most significant challenges. However, the COVID-19 crisis, the effects of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the related cost of living crisis have significantly impacted many European citizens and businesses, especially those already in precarious situations amid rising inequality in some parts of the EU.

According to a recent Eurobarometer survey, many Europeans perceive the EU's ecological transition as inequitable. Ensuring the acceptability of EU Green Deal initiatives and maintaining political stability necessitates a comprehensive, just transition policy framework.

This framework should embody social, economic, and territorial fairness, address the needs of those disadvantaged by the transition, aim to fight poverty, reduce inequalities, and secure human well-being within a thriving natural environment.