How can Territorial Just Transition Plans be truly inclusive towards marginalised communities?

On October 2nd, ECAS organised the 7th regional policy dialogue in the framework of the BOLSTER project (Bridging Organizations and marginalised communities for Local Sustainability Transitions in Europe). The dialogue series organised by ECAS promotes cross-regional policy learning on just and green transitions.

Purpose: This event focused on the inclusivity of Territorial Just Transition Plans (TJTP) towards marginalised communities, with a spotlight on the Stara Zagora region in Bulgaria.

With presentations from…

Prof. Christina Nikolova, from the University of National and World Economy (Bulgaria), who provided an overview of TJTP and BOLSTER findings in Stara Zagora, highlighting the region’s challenges due to its reliance on coal and the approved TJTP aiming at sustainable energy, social support, and economic diversification.
Alexandra Lulache, from MKBT: Make Better (Romania), who presented findings from the Prahova region, emphasising the need for inclusive policy planning and a more diverse approach to funding to engage marginalised groups effectively.
Dr. Artur Ochojski, from the University of Economics in Katowice (Poland),who discussed the Upper Silesia case, focusing on community mobilisation and the importance of addressing sustainability beyond operational activities.
Remina Aleksieva, from the Center for the Study of Democracy (CSD) (Bulgaria),who highlighted participatory instruments aimed at increasing citizen involvement and trust in the JT process, particularly for underrepresented communities.

And a panel discussion with…

Ivaylo Stoyanov and Monica Stoyanova, representativesfrom the Managing Authority of Programme Development of Regions within the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works, discussing updates on the TJTP adoption and upcoming grant procedures.
Zornitsa Roussinova, President of the Economic and Social Council (Bulgaria), elaborating on their analytical work in green transition and climate change.
Prof. Darina Zaimova, from Trakia University Institute for Sustainable Transition and Development (Bulgaria), who shared insights on initiatives related to the green transition in Stara Zagora.
Milena Ilieva and Stanimira Pashova, from World Without Borders (Bulgaria),focusing on their support for marginalised groups, particularly the Roma community, in accessing education and healthcare.

Main takeaways:

Marginalised groups, such as ethnic minorities and low-income households, often face exclusion in JT processes, highlighting the need for meaningful engagement and resource allocation.
Governments should actively involve these communities in decision-making and simplify funding applications to enhance access to JT resources.
Current JT project calls, while promoting economic diversification, struggle with bureaucratic complexities that hinder smaller enterprises and marginalised groups.
Civil society plays a crucial role in fostering inclusion through collaboration, advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives.
The EU can improve JT funding accessibility by dedicating resources for marginalised groups and enhancing local engagement through its country offices.

In conclusion, the seventh BOLSTER regional policy dialogue emphasised the importance of inclusive planning in Just Transition processes, ensuring that marginalised communities are effectively engaged and supported in achieving sustainable outcomes.

The recording of the dialogue is available below and presentations can be downloaded here.

A more detailed summary can be consulted here.