The interplay between just energy transition and community engagement: Assessing collaborative pathways in Greece, Poland and Bulgaria

The interplay between just transition and stakeholder involvement appears to be central to discussions on climate change, sustainability, the green economy, and achieving climate neutrality. Given that this transition involves long-term and profound changes across many socio-economic and environmental areas, the role of stakeholders in addressing this complex challenge is crucial. This paper examines the degree of stakeholder engagement in three coal-intensive regions within the EU: Western Macedonia in Greece, Silesia in Poland, and Stara Zagora in Bulgaria. Utilizing empirical research methods, including fieldwork, interviews, and questionnaires, this study provides a granular understanding of local governance mechanisms and their impact on the just transition process. The integration of place-based governance, deliberative democracy, and stakeholder engagement frameworks offers a comprehensive and innovative approach to addressing the complex challenges of transitioning from coal-dependent economies. The empirical findings underscore the importance of inclusive governance structures and highlight the significant risks associated with inadequate stakeholder involvement, offering a novel perspective on the pathways to a successful just transition.