Polish Silesian local governments are warning that the end of EU Just Transition Fund support after 2027 could trigger an economic and social disaster in coal regions.
Silesian Regions Face Potential Catastrophe
Representatives of Silesian local governments warn that the cessation of funding from the Just Transition Fund after 2027 could lead to economic and social catastrophe in Poland’s coal regions. The fund is intended to mitigate the effects of mine closures.
The Silesian Association of Communes and Counties (ŚZGiP) addressed the planned end of the Just Transition Fund after 2027, which currently funds initiatives like new business creation, worker training, and post-industrial site redevelopment. The fund’s budget for 2021-2027 is approximately €17.5 billion, with Poland allocated €3.85 billion, and Silesia receiving €2.4 billion.
Silesia’s Dependence on Transition Funds
ŚZGiP emphasizes that Silesia has the highest concentration of employment in mining and related industries within the European Union, making the Just Transition Fund crucial for the region. The city of Ruda Śląska is specifically cited as an area particularly in need of assistance.
Currently, Polska Grupa Górnicza S.A. and Spółka Restrukturyzacji Kopalń S.A. operate within Ruda Śląska, employing nearly 37,000 people. Local authorities state that removing fund access could result in both economic and social disaster.
Environmental Degradation and Infrastructure Costs
Centuries of mining activity have caused significant environmental and infrastructure degradation in the region, requiring extensive repairs to buildings, roads, and networks. Estimated repair costs in 2020 exceeded 1 billion PLN.
These costs include rectifying and repairing residential buildings, schools, kindergartens, and infrastructure, particularly sewage systems, as well as road resurfacing and restoring proper water conditions.
Maintaining Public Trust Through Continued Support
The ŚZGiP highlights that the Just Transition Fund has enabled the launch of numerous projects in recent years. However, the stability of this support is vital for maintaining public trust and engagement in the transformation process.
Silesian authorities believe maintaining the credibility of EU commitments to the long-term nature of this instrument is crucial for preserving social trust in the EU institutions within regions undergoing these difficult processes.
Call for a Dedicated Transition System
ŚZGiP argues that a separate system for mitigating the effects of energy transition should remain at the EU level, with a dedicated financial allocation proportionate to the scale of the challenges.
This system should support the development of modern, energy-secure, and resilient economic models, allowing communities in coal regions to build a viable future.