Factsheet for measure
DK-2020-23/3595
– measures in Denmark
The Bridge to the Future
Broen til fremtiden
Background information
The Bridge to the Future is an alliance formed in June 2020, comprising trade unions, green and social organizations, and researchers. While employers’ organizations are not formal members of the alliance, they are involved through dialogue and collaboration at the workplace level as part of efforts to ensure a just transition. The initiative aims to address climate change through a socially just transition. The collaboration focuses on ensuring that the green transition does not disproportionately impact the most vulnerable groups. This is achieved by promoting policies that balance climate taxes and subsidies to avoid social inequality. The alliance operates on three levels: political, workplace, and member engagement, fostering broad understanding and support for sustainable practices. There is no specific legal reference, but the initiative aligns with Denmark's Climate Act, which mandates a 70% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030.
Content of measure
The Bridge to the Future initiative focuses on a socially just transition to a green economy. The measure covers a broad coalition of trade unions, green and social organizations, and researchers. The eligibility criteria include all members of these organizations, particularly those in sectors most affected by the green transition, such as energy, transport, and agriculture. The initiative aims to ensure that the transition does not disproportionately impact vulnerable groups by promoting policies that balance climate taxes and subsidies.
The scale of support provided is not specified in exact monetary terms within the document. However, the initiative emphasizes the need for substantial investments in education and retraining programs to help workers transition to new green jobs. It also advocates for financial mechanisms to support low-income households in coping with the costs associated with the green transition. The overall goal is to create a fair and inclusive approach to achieving Denmark's climate targets, ensuring that no one is left behind in the process.
Use of measure
The Bridge to the Future initiative potentially covers thousands of workers, particularly those in sectors like energy, transport, and agriculture. While the exact number of eligible beneficiaries is not specified, the initiative aims to support a broad range of individuals and companies affected by the green transition. Uptake and the number of realized beneficiaries will be monitored and updated over time. Effectiveness will be assessed based on the successful retraining of workers and the equitable distribution of costs and benefits associated with the green transition.
Target groups
Actors and funding
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Actors
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Funding
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Social partners jointly
Trade unions
Other social actors (e.g. NGOs)
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Companies
European Funds
National funds
Social partners jointly
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Social partners
Social partners' role in
designing the measure
and form of involvement:
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Trade unions
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Employers' organisations
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Role
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Agreed (outcome) incl. social partner initiative
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Consulted
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Form
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Direct consultation outside a formal body
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Any other form of consultation, institutionalised (as stable working groups or committees) or informal
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Social partners' role in the
implementation, monitoring and assessment phase:
-
Social partners jointly
-
Main level of involvement: Peak or cross-sectoral level
Involvement
Social partners played a crucial role in the "Bridge to the Future" initiative. Their involvement was primarily demanded by the social partner organizations themselves, recognizing the need for a collaborative approach to ensure a just transition. Key organizations involved include major trade unions like FOA, 3F, and HK Danmark, as well as NGOs such as Greenpeace and Danmarks Naturfredningsforening. Employers' organizations were consulted to incorporate their perspectives.
Social partners contribute by actively participating in the design, implementation, and monitoring of the initiative. They provide valuable insights into the needs of workers and vulnerable groups, advocate for fair policies, and help develop training and support programs. Their ongoing involvement ensures that the initiative remains aligned with the goals of social justice and sustainability.
Views and reactions
Social partners are generally supportive of the "Bridge to the Future" initiative. Trade unions, in particular, are in full agreement, as the measure aligns with their goals of ensuring a just transition for workers affected by the green economy shift. They appreciate the focus on protecting vulnerable groups and providing necessary training and support for workers.
Employers' organizations, while consulted, are partially in agreement. They recognize the importance of a sustainable transition but express concerns about the potential financial burden on businesses. Overall, the collaborative approach and the emphasis on social justice have garnered broad support, with ongoing dialogue to address any concerns and ensure effective implementation.
Sources
