SOURCE: klix.ba.
As Bosnia and Herzegovina transitions from coal to sustainable energy sources, communities are questioning what the future holds for them. Fears of job losses and declining quality of life are growing as the world shifts toward more environmentally sustainable economies. How can we ensure no one is left behind in this process?
What is a just transition, what does it mean for you, and how can you actively participate in shaping it? Read on to find out.
What is a Just Transition?
Energy, climate change, and environmental protection have become “hot” topics, especially during natural disasters, power outages, or pollution events. The scientific consensus is clear—we must gradually phase out coal and other polluting energy sources to mitigate the climate crisis. However, transitioning to a more environmentally sustainable economy is far from simple.
This transition’s complexity lies in its interconnectedness—it spans multiple sectors, from energy and transportation to agriculture and natural resource management. Each sector influences and is influenced by the others. The European Union (EU) has set a goal to become carbon-neutral by 2050, promising significant ecological benefits, such as cleaner air and restored land. However, for coal-rich regions like parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the path forward is more challenging. These communities rely on the coal industry for jobs and economic stability.
Here, the concept of a “just transition” becomes critical, ensuring that no region or community is left behind as we move toward a cleaner future. Without proper planning, towns could lose their livelihoods. A just transition means aligning environmental goals with social and economic realities.
Although the concept seems new, it originated in the 1980s when unions in the U.S. demanded protections for workers affected by new environmental regulations. While this is not the first societal transition we’ve faced, it offers Bosnia and Herzegovina a unique opportunity to embrace new development through careful planning and inclusive dialogue.
Why Discuss This Now?
The urgency of these discussions has become particularly evident in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Last week, the Sarajevo Energy and Climate Week (SECW) brought together various stakeholders to discuss the country’s energy future. This event highlighted both the progress being made and the numerous shortcomings and challenges that remain.
One accompanying event during SECW, “Sustainable Transition in BiH: World Café & Swedish Fika“, focused on the topic of a just transition. The Swedish fika tradition, where important topics are discussed over coffee and pastries, provided a relaxed yet powerful platform for inclusive discussions about Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sustainable future. Why Sweden? Because there is much to learn from Sweden’s efforts to transition to a more environmentally sustainable economy.
Winners and Losers
Energy transitions can disrupt communities. While some may benefit from new jobs and a cleaner environment, others—particularly those tied to coal mines and thermal power plants—face serious challenges. Workers in these sectors, along with their families, could be the hardest hit. A just transition requires ensuring that these workers, who have built their lives around these industries, are not left behind.
Beyond workers, the transition will also reshape social dynamics, often exacerbating existing inequalities. Vulnerable groups, such as women underrepresented in the labor market and marginalized communities, are particularly at risk. If we fail to address these inequalities from the outset, we risk empowering the strong while leaving the vulnerable even further behind.
Can Local Governments Help?
Yes, their role is crucial. Both scientific research and practical experience show that local governments are key players in facilitating dialogue and building consensus within communities. Municipalities and cities have the potential to bring together diverse stakeholders—companies, citizens, and policymakers—and create platforms for transparent dialogue.
However, critical questions remain:
- Are these decisions being made collectively, or are they being imposed top-down?
- Is there a clear consensus on the future direction at all levels?
- Do local governments have the capacity to manage these complex discussions?
- Can they ensure these processes are conducted transparently and responsibly?
Long-term planning is essential to address these issues. We often talk about creating a “roadmap” to guide the process, but the reality is more complex—it’s more like a chess game where every move affects the bigger picture. Without careful planning, we risk falling into a “stalemate” where no progress can be made. Local governments must be at the center of this planning, equipped with the tools and support to make informed and inclusive decisions.
n the “Sustainable Transition of Bosnia and Herzegovina” (BiH SuTra) program, supported by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), work is already underway with three municipalities and one city to implement these transition plans, showing that change is possible. Governments need to accelerate implementation, ensuring their promises become reality—because without action, a just transition remains an unfulfilled promise.
What Can You Do?
While governments play a key role, the energy transition also requires active participation from citizens. Your voice matters, and there are many ways you can get involved. Whether by attending local meetings, supporting environmentally friendly projects, or simply starting conversations about sustainable practices, every small action contributes to the larger goal.
You can also encourage your locally elected representatives to adopt more environmentally friendly policies and ensure that the transition is fair for everyone. It all starts with engagement—much like the Swedish fika, where meaningful conversations are held over a cup of coffee. Let’s ensure these conversations lead to real actions, creating a fairer and greener future for Bosnia and Herzegovina.