Just transition needs to create and guarantee quality jobs in the EU

MEPs are calling for measures to ensure that businesses and workers are well equipped for the challenges and opportunities arising from the green and digital transitions.

Whereas the shift towards a climate-neutral and digitalised economy is essential for Europe, the success of this transition relies heavily on making sure it is just and inclusive for workers, businesses and regions, MEPs say.

Parliament’s report, adopted by 420 votes in favour and 207 votes against, with 20 abstentions, states that a legislative framework to address the challenges and opportunities of the just transition in the workplace is essential to ensure adequate minimum standards and to provide clarity and structure for both workers and employers.

Funding to guarantee workers’ skills

The report highlights that the shortage of skilled workers can be tackled by improving availability and accessibility of education and training. To that end, Parliament wants member states to ensure sufficient funding for quality skills and vocational training programmes.

Protection against dismissals

MEPs demand stronger protections against unfair dismissals and call for workers affected by restructuring to be ensured access to adequate compensation, retraining opportunities and support in securing new employment.

National strategies and business support

MEPs stress the need of developing national transition strategies and policies, as well as business support programme for SME, so they can have simplified and proportionate access to transition funding and can tackle skills shortages.

Stronger Just Transition Fund

MEPs are disappointed the Commission’s initial proposal for the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028-2034 does not include a stand-alone instrument to address the consequences of the just transition. They therefore call for an extended and enlarged “Just Transition Fund” for the post-2027 programming period.

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Rapporteur Jana Toom (Renew, EE) said: “Europe needs to take more seriously the situation of workers losing their jobs as the economy transitions to a cleaner and more digital economy. We will only thrive economically if everyone can benefit from these twin transitions. Pitting simplification and social rights against each other is a false dichotomy that risks undermining all our priorities.”

Background

In January 2020, the Commission presented the Just Transition Mechanism, a tool to provide targeted support to regions and sectors that are most affected by the transition towards the green economy.

In March 2025, Parliament adopted a resolution calling for the protection of jobs and workers' rights, such as the right to information and consultation, during restructuring processes.