Policy Reccomendations
Civil society’s strategic role in the 2024-2029 Mandate: Is a Fair Transition Possible in an Europe Focused on Competitiveness and Security?
As the EU shifts from the European Green Deal to the Clean Industrial Deal, key questions arise: Will social and environmental justice take a backseat to competitiveness and growth? And will civil society’s crucial role in shaping inclusive policies be recognised?
The EU’s political agenda is increasingly focused on economic competitiveness, defence, and security. But civil society is clear: a transition that neglects justice and planetary well-being is no transition at all.
Our latest policy brief from the 9th REAL DEAL Civil Society Forum for Sustainability compiles insights from over 70 CSOs, offering concrete recommendations for the EU’s 2024-2029 mandate.
Risks of a narrow focus on growth
Prioritising industrial competitiveness over equality threatens to deepen inequalities and undermine the EU’s credibility as a global advocate for the 2030 Agenda. The fair transition must be inclusive, ensuring marginalised groups are central to shaping green policies—not left behind.
Advancing gender and social justice
The transition must be gender-responsive. Women and gender-diverse people face disproportionate climate impacts yet remain underrepresented in decision-making. The policy brief calls for gender-specific objectives, funding, and eco-feminist principles to address systemic inequalities.
Strengthening deliberative democracy
A successful transition requires meaningful civil society participation, in line with Article 11 of the Treaty on European Union. Structured dialogue must ensure that all voices—especially those from vulnerable backgrounds—shape EU policies and funding decisions.
Key civil society recommendations
- Enhance participatory democracy: Establish transparent, structured mechanisms for CSO engagement at all levels.
- Foster a well-being economy: Prioritise post-growth pathways and a care economy over narrow economic growth.
- Integrate gender equality: Implement gender-responsive policies and dedicated funding to tackle systemic inequalities.
- Support marginalised communities: Develop targeted programs for those most affected by the climate crisis.
- Center social justice in economic policies: Replace the Stability and Growth Pact with a Well-being and Sustainability Pact.
The time to act is now
A fair and just transition requires civil society at the decision-making table. The policy brief lays out a roadmap for an EU that upholds social and environmental justice, ensuring no one—and no place—is left behind.
Photo credits: SOLIDAR
