The fourth annual Ukrainian Forum dedicated to the future of fossil fuel–dependent communities took place

The first panel discussion, “The Future of the Just Transition in Coal Communities,” brought together representatives of the Ukrainian government and parliament, coal-dependent communities, energy and climate policy experts, as well as civil society organizations working on the transformation and recovery of Ukrainian communities.

During this panel discussion, moderated by the CEO of the Association, Andriy Tabinskyy, participants engaged in an in-depth discussion on the effective implementation of the State Target Program for the Just Transition of Coal Regions. In particular, they addressed challenges at the local level, risks facing coal communities, and the instruments needed to ensure that the transition is fair.

“Just transition is no longer merely a concept — it is a real, ongoing process that has been formally embedded in a state programme, has gained strong support at the local level, and is being accompanied by the implementation of dozens of impactful projects within a broader strategy for positive change. Much work still lies ahead, along with significant challenges driven by the war and the complex situation in Ukraine’s energy sector and economy. At the same time, there is reason for optimism: Ukrainian communities, the government, international partners, and the expert community are united by a shared goal — to build an energy-resilient, modern, and just economy,”— stated Andriy Tabinskyy.

The event was organized by the NGO Ecoaction and the Luhansk Human Rights Center “Alternative” in cooperation with the Association of Coal Communities of Ukraine.