Multiple just transitions? A study of how a just transition is envisioned in Poland

Abstract

While research on just transitions is expanding fast, there is a need for more studies focusing on the politics of just transitions. As the realization of a just transition depends in practice on common visions and possibilities for building coalitions between stakeholders, it is important to focus on how a just transition is envisioned by diverse actors. This paper examines how just energy transitions are envisioned by public authorities, business sectors and civil society in Poland and specifically the Silesian region, how their visions conflict and align with each other, and with what consequences for those transitions. The analysis draws on semi-structured interviews and publicly available materials. Three visions are identified: a just transition as social justice for labor in the coal-mining industry and related business, as a just transformation of the region, and as an opportunity for a systemic change. The paper argues that similarities and differences between visions create both opportunities and challenges for a just transition.