Background information

The Research Institute of Greek General Confederation of Labour (INE GSEE) published a study in 2021, titled "Just Transition in the Greek Reality within the Framework of the EU." This study examines European and international transition policies, Greece's current situation, and offers policy recommendations. It highlights the need for climate justice, inclusive dialogue, and safeguarding workers, emphasizing that a just workforce transition is crucial. Greek trade unions, concerned about the rapid post-lignite shift, stress the importance of protecting jobs, reskilling workers, and meaningful social dialogue, often lacking in Greece. They support a green economy that ensures employment and adapts workers' skills to new demands.

Content of measure

The INE GSEE study on just transition highlights severe impacts on Kozani, Florina, and Megalopolis, where lignite plants operate, including rising unemployment and economic decline. Local trade unions argue that the rapid decarbonisation process will worsen these issues and de-mand an extension of lignite plant operations to ensure a smoother tran-sition while prioritizing job and income protection. GENOP-DEI, representing PPC workers, also criticizes the rushed timetable, warning of its negative effects on workers and local economies. They stress that the consultation on the JDT master plan was insufficient and advocate for more time to mitigate adverse outcomes. To address these challenges, the study proposes policy measures such as new fiscal tools, support for affected regions, loans and state guarantees, cluster development, and stronger cooperation among stakeholders to achieve a just transition.

Use of measure

No information is available on the impact of INE GSEE's proposals on the design and implementation of the Just Transition program.

Target groups

Workers	Businesses	Citizens
Applies to all workers	Applies to all businesses	Applies to all citizens

Actors and funding

Actors	Funding
Trade unions	Trade union

Social partners

Social partners' role in designing the measure and form of involvement:

	Trade unions	Employers' organisations
Role	Agreed (outcome) incl. social partner initiative	No involvement
Form	Unknown	Not applicable

Social partners' role in the implementation, monitoring and assessment phase:

• Unknown
• Main level of involvement: Peak or cross-sectoral level

Involvement

The initiative described is an independent effort led by INE GSEE, the research institute of the Greek General Confederation of Labour, which serves as the social partner representing employees.

Views and reactions

There are no other social partner's reactions to the measure

Sources

• 17 September 2021: Μελέτη του ΙΝΕ ΓΣΕΕ για τη Δίκαιη μετάβαση στην Ελλάδ (www.inegsee.gr)