Designing fair and politically viable transport transitions: A framework for transition assistance policies in higher-income countries

Abstract

Decarbonising the transport sector is essential for meeting climate targets, but the policies required can disproportionately burden vulnerable groups and trigger political resistance. This paper develops a practical framework to help policymakers design Transition Assistance Policies (TAPs) that both promote fairness and enhance public support for low-carbon transport transitions. The framework is based on an integrative literature review across three key domains: (1) empirical studies on socio-economic vulnerability to transport decarbonisation, (2) normative theories of transport and climate justice, and (3) research on public perceptions of policy fairness and acceptability. By combining these perspectives, the paper identifies four categories of TAPs and illustrates each with context-sensitive policy examples. The framework provides actionable guidance for aligning climate ambition with equity and political feasibility in transport policy.