The Nordic Responses to Climate Change: The Just Transition in Finland and Denmark

Abstract

In this article, I give an overview of the progress of the just transition in two Nordic countries, Finland and Denmark. Specifically, this article explores the significant role Finland’s labor unions have played in a just transition and the Danish government’s active support for green-transition technology. I look in particular at the social protection programs involved, as, for a successful just transition, it is essential to ensure that support is provided for workers who would take up roles in the decarbonized economy, for their occupational retraining as well as income support while they are on training. The case analysis highlights the importance of defining distinct roles for various stakeholders, fostering collaboration among them, and establishing a society-wide response mechanism.