The Just Transition Forum: dialogue and cooperation in the Contracting Parties 

At the Just Transition Forum on 9 October in Pristina, Kosovo*, the Energy Community Secretariat, in collaboration with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, will unite affected communities, youth, policymakers to facilitate regional dialogue on the principles of a Just Transition. 

Community voices and decarbonisation 

This year’s Forum will give a voice to those most affected by the energy transition. Highlights include a video presentation featuring coal mine and power plant workers, inspiring performances by youth, a fireside chat with an expert, and high-level contributions. The program is an opportunity for dynamic and meaningful exchanges, providing a platform to showcase ongoing initiatives and projects related to just transition in the region. 

The European Green Deal sets the stage for these discussions, as its goal of a climate-neutral Europe by 2050 requires a shift from carbon-intensive industries, particularly in coal-dependent regions. In this context, the Energy Community plays a key role in assisting the Contracting Parties align with these goals, guiding them through energy reforms, decarbonisation, and renewable adoption, thus bringing the region closer to the Green Deal’s core principles. 

To achieve a socially just energy transition in the Energy Community Contracting Parties, we are committed to facilitating an open dialogue among diverse stakeholders. At this year's forum, we amplify the voices of those most affected - workers, their families, and impacted communities - to foster mutual understanding of the social and economic costs of the transition. 

“Business as usual is no longer an option. The aging power plants in the region have a clear expiration date, signalling the urgent need for transformation,” says Monika Figaj, Climate and Just Transition Expert at the Energy Community Secretariat. 

Support and collaboration for a Just Transition 

The forum will address the role of planning in creating governance frameworks that attract funding for a sustainable transition. “It is crucial to engage in discussions about financing the Just Transition, as securing adequate funding will support affected communities and invest in sustainable alternatives,” adds Mrs. Figaj. 

Strong regional and international cooperation is essential to navigate the complexities of the energy transition. By collaborating across borders, stakeholders can share knowledge and develop best practices to address decarbonisation challenges.  

Governance and solid institutional frameworks

The Energy Community Secretariat advocates for long-term planning which includes addressing a just and sustained energy transition as part of all sectoral development plans, such as the National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs). The NECPs provide a solid, transparent and inclusive governance framework fit to guide future financing for a just and sustained transition.  

Adam Cwetsch, Head of the European Green Deal Unit, states, “Transparent decision-making and robust governance frameworks are key to the energy transition, particularly within the context of a Just Transition. Governance frameworks like National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) can create a structured approach. By leveraging stakeholder engagement, data collection, impact assessments, and long-term planning, we can achieve Just Transition goals in the region.” 

The Energy Community Secretariat is ideally positioned to spearhead the Just Transition dialogue within the Energy Community, highlighting key challenges and proposing potential solutions for regional policymaking. The Secretariat actively assists decision-makers in facilitating a smoother transition for coal-dependent regions in the Contracting Parties.