Cities and regions are the level at which at least 70% European Green Deal legislation must be implemented and are therefore at the frontline of actions to stem the climate crisis and societal challenges.

From 4-5 March, a delegation from ICLEI Europe took part in the European Conference for a Just Transition in ICLEI Member Brussels (Belgium). The event, convened by the Belgian Presidency of the EU, brought together national governments and key stakeholders to discuss the creation of a more sustainable and just Europe. Its outcomes will feed into the Presidency’s EU Council recommendations, which are expected to shape future EU priorities.

For its part, ICLEI has been deeply involved in advocating for the inclusion of the local level in efforts to ensure that our transition towards a climate neutral, circular, resilient and ultimately sustainable Europe is just and fair. Through work with the European Commission on the Just Transition Platform and other projects, communities across Europe are working towards developing policies that share the burden of this transition as well as the benefits. Similarly, as a member of the European Alliance for a Just Transition, the group provides support to EU policy makers in turning ambition into action.

“A truly just transition can only take place with local governments at the table: they need greater financial autonomy and political inclusion to shape a socially just future within planetary boundaries,” contributed Matthew Bach, Head of Justice, Equity and Democracy at ICLEI Europe.

ICLEI has also produced a Guidance Document for cities and towns, which examines what a just transition truly means and identifies the definitions, principles, opportunities and key messages that guide our understanding of this transition.

Learn more about ICLEI's work on Justice, Equity and Democracy here.