A fair transition towards climate neutrality must recognise the role of SGIs and essential services

On Tuesday 14 December 2021, the European Commission has presented its proposal for a Council Recommendation on ensuring a fair transition towards climate neutrality. This proposal comprises policy guidance complementing the measures of the Fit-for-55 package presented in July 2021.

Based on SGI Europe position paper on the fair transition published in November 2021, Valeria Ronzitti, SGI Europe General Secretary, commented:

“As presented, the proposal for a Council Recommendation on ensuring a fair transition towards climate neutrality rightly emphasises the role played by essential services and providers of services of general interest (SGIs), including energy, transport, sanitation, social housing, financial services and digital communications. Those providers will be key to enable the EU to mitigate the potential adverse social consequences of the green transition and to become a fair, resource-efficient and competitive economy.”

“Moreover, SGI Europe welcomes that the proposal calls for actively involving social partners to address the employment and social dimensions of the green transition, including to strengthen job creation potential and developing new skills and training needs, especially for vulnerable groups.”

“As EU social partner with members at the front stage of the fair transition, SGI Europe will further contribute to the design and implementation of the support mechanisms to guarantee access to all essential services covered by Principles 19 and 20 of the European Pillar of Social Rights.”

(Photo: European Union, 2021. Source: EC - Audiovisual Service)