The Key Dimensions of Just Transitions - From Concept to Policy Practice

John R. Moodie

doi:10.55845/jos-2025-1248

Authors

John R. Moodie Nordregio, Sweden

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55845/jos-2025-1248

Keywords:

Just Transitions, Climate Justice, Multi-level Governance, Decarbonisation Policy, Regional Resilience

Abstract

A gap exists between the rapid evolution of Just Transition (JT) policies and the slower development of conceptual JT frameworks in academic research. As there is no universally agreed-upon definition of JTs within policy and academic circles, the further conceptualisation of JTs would be useful to provide policymakers with a JT framework that can be adapted to suit different territorial contexts. This conceptual paper develops a JT conceptual framework based on a synthesis of key JT themes identified within both JT academic literature and policy documents. The article contributes to bridging the gap between research and policy in two ways: firstly, by highlighting and exploring ten key dimensions of JTs and their relationship with core themes of justice associated with JTs; and secondly, by providing practical recommendations for integrating these ten JT dimensions into JT policymaking processes across different governance levels. The recommendations are targeted at EU, national, regional, and local-level policymakers responsible for formulating and implementing JT policies. The JT conceptual framework is designed to support policymakers in the development and implementation of balanced and inclusive JT policies that address regional challenges and opportunities and meet the needs of citizens.

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