Publications22

Dec 01 2025
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Acting Out: Arts and Culture Under Pressure

By Featured, Publications

The ability of arts and culture to foster a sense of community and help us understand the past, interpret the present, and imagine the future is often celebrated. Yet in today’s political climate, these vital human endeavours are both devalued and instrumentalised. Neoliberal economic orthodoxy, the rise of the far right, the dominance of tech corporations, and unregulated AI all add to an already precarious situation for artists and cultural workers. Still, instances of cultural resistance offer reason for hope. Recognising the value of arts and culture and their potential to contribute to a just ecological transformation, this edition aims to open a space for what both the green movement and the creative sectors see as the key to healthy democracies – dialogue, pluralism, and mutual understanding – without erasing productive conflict.

Acting Out: Arts and Culture Under Pressure is now available in print and online on the Green European Journal website.

Nov 05 2025
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Fair allocation of energy network costs

By Featured, Publications

About 

As Europe electrifies, it will need to invest massively in its grid. Grid investment is paid for through network tariffs, a component of energy bills. A surge in investment means a surge in network tariffs. But how should these costs be fairly allocated in the context of a just transition for all and an ongoing cost-of-living crisis across Europe? 

Well-designed grid tariffs can reward household flexibility that eases pressure on grids while protecting vulnerable consumers. This brief calls on the European Commission to provide stronger guidance for national regulators on designing network tariffs that encourage those who can to flex their electricity demand while protecting vulnerable consumers and working to reduce energy poverty.  

This policy brief is one in a series of briefs developed by a Knowledge Community of approximately 30 experts in energy and social policy from industry, the EU institutions, civil society and think tanks. The group met several times over half a year to discuss how to foster participation and inclusion in the energy transition. To write the briefs, the authors used a collaborative method where they presented each draft during Knowledge Community meetings, then led a dedicated discussion, drawing ideas from the expertise in the group to develop their work. 

You can access the publication here.

Authors

  • Tom Lewis is Energy Policy Coordinator at Climate Action Network Europe 
  • Christophe Jost is Energy Policy Coordinator at Climate Action Network Europe 

 

The other briefs in this series are: 

We encourage you to explore the two policy briefs featured above or access the complete collection below:

This policy brief is published by the Green European Foundation with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication. The views expressed in this publication are solely those of the authors and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Parliament or the Green European Foundation.

Published with the support of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union| Global Dialogue. The analysis and opinions expressed in this report reflect the views of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union | Global Dialogue.

Nov 05 2025
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Increasing benefit sharing of renewable energy projects

By Featured, Publications

About 

The practice of benefit sharing of renewable energy projects is a win-win situation. It can make the energy transition fairer for local communities, help developers speed up project deployment and accelerate the EU’s renewable rollout. Project developers consult with local citizens and municipalities, and come to an agreement on sharing some of the benefits of the project, whether that be through local investment, in-kind benefits, or local part-ownership. Involving the local community can reduce local opposition and speed up permitting, and make projects more competitive.  

Despite its many advantages, the practice is still relatively limited. This brief calls for the EU to help widen and standardise benefit sharing by providing guidelines and setting out key principles that can be implemented across the EU. It calls on the European Commission to include benefit sharing in its Citizens Energy Package, look at making benefit sharing mandatory and include it in assessment criteria for permitting applications.  

This policy brief is one in a series of briefs developed by a Knowledge Community of approximately 30 experts in energy and social policy from industry, the EU institutions, civil society and think tanks. The group met several times over half a year to discuss how to foster participation and inclusion in the energy transition. To write the briefs, the authors used a collaborative method where they presented each draft during Knowledge Community meetings, then led a dedicated discussion, drawing ideas from the expertise in the group to develop their work. 

You can access the publication here.

Author 

  • Etienne Charbit is Europe Policy Officer at French NGO réseau Cler 

 

The other briefs in this series are: 

We encourage you to explore the two policy briefs featured above or access the complete collection below:

This policy brief is published by the Green European Foundation with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication. The views expressed in this publication are solely those of the authors and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Parliament or the Green European Foundation.

Published with the support of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union| Global Dialogue. The analysis and opinions expressed in this report reflect the views of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union | Global Dialogue.

Nov 03 2025
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The beauty of what already exists: The contribution of renovation and repurposing to affordable energy-efficient homes

By Featured, Publications

About 

Political pressure is high to deal with Europe’s housing crisis. This policy brief calls on policymakers to resist the temptation for short-term fixes, arguing rather for a holistic understanding of housing affordability that looks beyond paying rent or mortgage to also account for the cost of living in a home. Quality housing can save energy, protect occupants’ health and resist extreme weather impacts. The policy brief makes the case that investing further in renovation and repurposing of existing buildings should be central to any response to the housing crisis.  

This policy brief is one in a series of briefs developed by a Knowledge Community of approximately 30 experts in energy and social policy from industry, the EU institutions, civil society and think tanks. The group met several times over half a year to discuss how to foster participation and inclusion in the energy transition. To write the briefs, the authors used a collaborative method where they presented each draft during Knowledge Community meetings, then led a dedicated discussion, drawing ideas from the expertise in the group to develop their work. 

You can access the publication here.

Authors 

  • Emily Bankert is Researcher for Carbon and Energy in the Built Environment at Buildings Performance Institute Europe 
  • Hélène Sibileau is Senior Policy Advisor at Buildings Performance Institute Europe 

The other briefs in this series are: 

We encourage you to explore the two policy briefs featured above or access the complete collection below:

This policy brief is published by the Green European Foundation with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication. The views expressed in this publication are solely those of the authors and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Parliament or the Green European Foundation.

Published with the support of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union | Global Dialogue. The analysis and opinions expressed in this report reflect the views of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union | Global Dialogue.

Jul 25 2025
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Gender Power: The energy transition through a gender lens

By Publications

EN (French and Italian version below):

Gender often remains a blind spot in energy policies of the European Union and its Member States. Yet, our relationships to energy are deeply gendered. Women are, for example, disproportionately affected by energy poverty and climate change, while remaining underrepresented in the energy sector and its governance. These inequalities are rooted in our society’s dependence on fossil fuels and the patriarchal systems that sustain them.

How can we move away from fossil fuels and carry out a socially just energy transition while reducing gender inequalities? In her new essay, Gender Power, Barbara Nicoloso explores the deep historical links between gender and energy and skillfully outlines a path toward an equitable and just energy transition.

About

This essay is divided into three chapters, which take stock of gender inequalities in Europe, analyse the links between fossil fuel energy systems and gender inequalities, and then identify ways of avoiding their reproduction in a model based on sufficiency, efficiency and renewable energy. The aim is also to show how transition policies, and in particular energy sufficiency policies, can be levers for reducing gender inequalities. Finally, we will set out the political conditions necessary for the fight to preserve the environment and the societal fight for gender equality to go hand in hand.

The aims of this essay are in line with those of the Green European Foundation: to move the political and public debate forward, towards a more social and sustainable Europe;
to support elected representatives and local actors in implementing a just transition; to promote inclusive policies to achieve Europe’s climate and energy objectives; and to ensure that the energy transition does not amplify social, ethnic and gender inequalities and can, on the contrary, help to reduce them. The essay is based on the available scientific and institutional literature on the subject, as well as interviews conducted with stakeholders with field actors as part of a Knowledge Community composed of representatives from associations, research centres, local governments, and elected officials. This group met from September 2023 to April 2024 to discuss the gender dimension of the energy transition in both the French and European contexts. This Knowledge Community also led to the publication of the policy brief “Putting Gender at the Heart of the EU Energy Transition”, co-authored by Barbara Nicoloso, which you can find by clicking here.

Author

  • Barbara Nicoloso is the director of Virage Énergie and a lecturer at Sciences Po Lille.

Please click here to access the English translation of the essay.

 

FR:

La question du genre est un angle mort des politiques énergétiques et climatiques actuellement engagées par les États membres de l’Union européenne. Pourtant, les femmes sont plus impactées que les hommes par la précarité, vivent davantage dans des logements de mauvaise qualité, utilisent plus les transports en commun… Tout en étant sous-représentées dans les métiers de l’énergie. 

Comment sortir des énergies fossiles et mener une transition énergétique socialement juste en réduisant les inégalités de genre ? Dans son nouvel essai, « Gender Power », Barbara Nicoloso explore les liens historiques profonds entre le genre et l’énergie, et esquisse habilement la voie à suivre pour parvenir à une transition énergétique équitable et juste. 

A propos

Cet essai est construit autour de trois chapitres permettant de dresser l’état des lieux des inégalités de genre en Europe, d’analyser les liens entre un modèle énergétique carboné basé sur les combustibles fossiles et les inégalités de genre, pour ensuite identifier la façon d’éviter leur reproduction dans un modèle reposant sur la sobriété et les énergies renouvelables. Il s’agira également de montrer comment les politiques de transition, et en particulier les politiques de sobriété énergétique, peuvent être des leviers pour réduire les inégalités de genre. Enfin, nous exposerons les conditions politiques nécessaires pour que la lutte pour la préservation de l’environnement et la lutte sociétale pour l’égalité de genre aillent de pair. 

L’objectif de cet essai rejoint ceux poursuivis par la Green European Foundation, à savoir, faire avancer les débats politiques et publics vers une Europe plus sociale et durable, accompagner les élus et acteurs locaux dans la mise en place d’une transition juste, promouvoir des politiques inclusives pour atteindre les objectifs climatiques et énergétiques européens et s’assurer que la transition énergétique n’amplifie pas les inégalités sociales, ethniques, et de genre et peut au contraire contribuer à les réduire. Il se base sur la littérature scientifique et institutionnelle disponible sur le sujet ainsi que sur des entretiens réalisés avec des actrices et acteurs de terrain dans le cadre d’une Knowledge Community (Communauté de connaissances) composée de représentant.es d’associations, de centres de recherche, de collectivités locales, d’élu.es qui se sont réunies de septembre 2023 à avril 2024 pour discuter de la dimension genrée de la transition énergétique dans le contexte français et européen. 

Cette communauté de connaissances a également donné lieu au policy brief « Le genre au cœur de la transition énergétique de l’UE », co-écrite par Barbara Nicoloso, que vous pouvez trouver en cliquant ici .

Autrice

  • Barbara Nicoloso est directrice de Virage Énergie et enseignante à Sciences Po Lille.

Veuillez cliquer ici pour accéder à la version française de la publication.

 

IT:

Il genere rimane spesso un punto cieco nelle politiche energetiche dell’Unione Europea e dei suoi Stati membri. Eppure, il nostro rapporto con l’energia è profondamente influenzato dal genere. Le donne, ad esempio, sono colpite in modo sproporzionato dalla povertà energetica e dai cambiamenti climatici, pur rimanendo sottorappresentate nel settore energetico e nella sua governance. Queste disuguaglianze sono radicate nella dipendenza della nostra società dai combustibili fossili e nei sistemi patriarcali che li sostengono. Come possiamo abbandonare i combustibili fossili e realizzare una transizione energetica socialmente equa, riducendo al contempo le disuguaglianze di genere? Nel suo nuovo saggio, Gender Power, Barbara Nicoloso esplora i profondi legami storici tra genere ed energia e delinea abilmente un percorso verso una transizione energetica equa e giusta.

Informazioni

Questo saggio è suddiviso in tre capitoli, che fanno il punto sulle disuguaglianze di genere in Europa, analizzano i legami tra i sistemi energetici basati sui combustibili fossili e le disuguaglianze di genere, e infine individuano i modi per evitare che queste si riproducano in un modello basato sulla sufficienza, l’efficienza e le energie rinnovabili. L’obiettivo è anche quello di mostrare come le politiche di transizione, e in particolare quelle di sufficienza energetica, possano essere leve per ridurre le disuguaglianze di genere. Infine, definiremo le condizioni politiche necessarie affinché la lotta per la salvaguardia dell’ambiente e la lotta sociale per la parità di genere possano andare di pari passo.

Gli obiettivi di questo saggio sono in linea con quelli della Green European Foundation: far progredire il dibattito politico e pubblico verso un’Europa più sociale e sostenibile; sostenere i rappresentanti eletti e gli attori locali nell’attuazione di una transizione giusta; promuovere politiche inclusive per raggiungere gli obiettivi climatici ed energetici dell’Europa; e garantire che la transizione energetica non amplifichi le disuguaglianze sociali, etniche e di genere e possa, al contrario, contribuire a ridurle. Il saggio si basa sulla letteratura scientifica e istituzionale disponibile sull’argomento, nonché su interviste condotte con le parti interessate e gli attori sul campo nell’ambito di una comunità della conoscenza composta da rappresentanti di associazioni, centri di ricerca, amministrazioni locali e funzionari eletti. Questo gruppo si è riunito da settembre 2023 ad aprile 2024 per discutere della dimensione di genere della transizione energetica sia nel contesto francese che in quello europeo. Questa comunità della conoscenza ha anche portato alla pubblicazione del documento programmatico “Putting Gender at the Heart of the EU Energy Transition” (Mettere il genere al centro della transizione energetica dell’UE), scritto in collaborazione con Barbara Nicoloso, che potete trovare cliccando qui.

Informazioni sull’autrice

  • Barbara Nicoloso è direttrice di Virage Énergie e docente presso Sciences Po Lille.

Clicca qui per accedere alla traduzione italiana della pubblicazione.

 

 

Published by the Green European Foundation with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication. The views expressed in this publication are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Parliament.  

Jun 03 2025
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Political Steps towards Eco-Social Transformations

By Featured, Publications

About

This policy brief examines the political feasibility of transforming Europe’s welfare states to meet the dual challenges of ecological breakdown and rising social risks. While less transformative eco-social policies, such as those included in the current European just transition framework, have gained traction in recent years, they remain limited in scope, reactive in nature, and rooted in a growth-oriented paradigm. The brief argues that more transformative eco-social policies, grounded in the concept of sustainable welfare, are needed to address both the causes and consequences of the ecological crisis.

Drawing on the ‘three Is’ framework – interests, ideas, and institutions – the brief identifies barriers to transformative change and outlines strategies to overcome them. Key elements of these strategies include strengthening socio-ecological coalitions and constituencies; promoting rights-based ideas; and creating inclusive, multilevel and silo-breaking institutions. Ultimately, the brief calls for a bold rethinking of European social policymaking to ensure that ecological action reinforces, rather than undermines, democratic legitimacy and social justice.

Author

  • Matteo Mandelli, is a postdoctoral research fellow at the Centre for European Studies and Comparative Politics, Sciences Po Paris. He currently collaborates with the Green European Foundation (GEF) and is a board member of the Sustainable Welfare and Eco-social Policy Network. He holds a PhD in political studies from the University of Milan.

Published by the Green European Foundation with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication. The views expressed in this publication are solely those of the author and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Parliament. 

 

May 28 2025
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Bridging the Gap: Matching Europe’s budget with its strategic transformation needs

By Featured, Publications

About

The EU’s next long-term budget will be a defining test of its strategic direction. This policy brief makes the case for a bold new European Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) that reflects the scale of today’s intertwined climate, social, and geopolitical challenges. It argues that without significantly increased and better-targeted public investment, the EU risks deepening divides, falling behind in global competitiveness, and losing public trust. The upcoming budget negotiations offer a rare opportunity to align Europe’s resources with its priorities: a green and inclusive economy and democratic resilience. With political momentum shifting and economic realities evolving, the moment to act is now. The brief lays out key principles and choices needed to deliver a budget fit for Europe’s future. Europe has the facts and data, the institutions, and the public support to lead through transformation. But it lacks a budget that matches its ambition. A forward-looking, adequately resourced, and strategically governed EU financial framework is essential, not only to navigate today’s crises but to shape a stable, green, and inclusive future.

This GEF Policy Brief was written with expert contributions from the independent climate think tank E3G.

Authors

  • Alba Berhami Sintomer is a Policy Advisor and a research lead at the climate change think tank E3G,
  • Sandra Tzvetkova is a Senior Policy Advisor at the climate change think tank E3G,
  • Taube Van Melkebeke is Head of Policy at the Green European Foundation (GEF). For further information, contact her at taube.vanmelkebeke@gef.eu.

Published by the Green European Foundation with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication. The views expressed in this publication are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Parliament or the Green European Foundation. 

 

Apr 10 2025
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A modernised European single market for a new reality of economic security

By Publications

About

This paper was published as part of the Single Market Economics Papers by the Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs of the European Commission.

Time is of the essence in aligning European economic systems with both environmental and social goals. To achieve this, it is essential to leverage all available tools – the single market being the most potent instrument. However, unlocking its full potential requires the adoption of a new strategy based on a reformed sense of economic security.

The persistence of path dependency and a reflexive attachment to the status quo has left the single market ill-suited to meet the needs of its citizens. The 2025 Single Market strategy should be viewed as a starting point to overcome outdated frameworks and to reflect on the intentionality and construction of the single market.

This paper argues that the potential of the European single market in providing economic security within a dramatically changed context has been overlooked. It aims to fill the gaps in current understandings of economic security by developing an expanded framework that incorporates economic resilience and, more specifically, environmental and social security. Ultimately, it seeks to contribute to the current debate on reforming the single market by addressing both existing and emerging threats to the European economy.

Authors

  • Philippe Pochet collaborates with GEF on the topics of welfare states, single market and the circular economy as a GEF fellow. He was Director of the Observatoire Social Européen (OSE) for over 15 years and then General Director of the European Trade Union Institute (ETUI) from 2008 to 2023. He is currently a Professor at the Catholic University of Louvain and a Visiting Professor at the College of Europe in Bruges. He is also an Affiliate Professor at the Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, Pisa.
  • Taube Van Melkebeke is Head of Policy at the Green European Foundation (GEF). She leads the various Knowledge Communities of the Foundation. For more information, contact her at taube.vanmelkebeke@gef.eu.
  • Friederike Möller is policy intern at the Green European Foundation.

This document has been prepared for the European Commission; however, it reflects the views only of the authors, and the European Commission is not liable for any consequence stemming from the reuse of this publication.

 

 

Mar 06 2025
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Citizens’ Assemblies and the European Green Deal: A Perfect (Mis)Match?

Citizens’ Assemblies and the European Green Deal: A Perfect (Mis)Match?

By Featured, Publications

About

The European Green Deal has missed a key chance to tap into the recent deliberative wave across Europe. Yet the green transition is ongoing and must accelerate – with citizens at its core. Its success hinges on meeting people’s needs and embedding social impact in strong environmental policies. Citizens’ assemblies offer a way to ensure voices are heard at all levels, from local communities to EU institutions.

Citizens’ assemblies […] show that citizens coming together propose, more often than governments, bold policies to address the climate crisis while also considering social aspects. This creates a unique opportunity to redesign the Green Deal bottom-up.

This publication is part of the Green European Foundation’s work on Democracy and Participation and is the result of a collaborative  process between partner organisations from Belgium, Croatia, Finland, North Macedonia, and Serbia within the project Green Deal  for  All – Citizen’s Assemblies in Action, organised by the Green European Foundation.  Recognising the huge gap between the top-down implementation of the European Green Deal – reduced merely to a series of technological and financial measures – and the needs of various societies and communities across Europe, the aim was to explore the role citizens’ assemblies can play in ensuring its bottom-up democratisation.

 

This publication is also available in Greek

This publication has been realized by the Green European Foundation with the support of  the Institute of Political Ecology, Oikos, Visio, ASSED  Sunrise, Polekol and Center for Green Politics, as well as with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication.

 

Mar 06 2025
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Gender at the Heart of the EU Energy Transition: Key learnings from the French case

By Publications

About

The policy brief “Gender at the Heart of the EU Energy Transition” identifies the energy transition’s potential for gender equality. The publication exposes the gendered nature of our relationships to energy and the link between the fossil-based energy systems and gender inequalities. It examines gender-based disparities within the three key roles that define our relationships with energy: as consumer, producer, and governance actor.

The energy transition has the potential to tackle these inequalities. But to effectively counter these traditional dynamics, intentional policy is required. Using examples from France, the brief showcases that, while gender has entered the energy transition policy discourse here and there, more needs to be done to avoid repeating inequalities of the past. We argue that gender mainstreaming and active participation of all genders across demand, supply and decision-making spaces within the transition are critical and that EU policymakers must – and can – lead the way.

 

Authors

  • Barbara Nicoloso, Director of the French NGO Virage Énergie,
  • Taube van Melkebeke, Head of Policy at the Green European Foundation. For further information, contact her at taube.vanmelkebeke@gef.eu.

Published by the Green European Foundation with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication. The views expressed in this publication are solely those of the authors and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Parliament. 

 

Mar 03 2025
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A European Wellbeing Economy: Avenues for political action

By Publications

About

The starting point of this publication is that the EU’s economy is ultimately embedded in cultural and social systems, which in turn are sub-systems of the Earth’s biosphere. As Fullerton notes, “the history of economic theory is [therefore] not over with Keynes and Hayek”. Instead, we need to be more critical, more systemic, and more daring. A wellbeing economy addresses this need – it aims at delivering quality of life for people, while pulling our economy back within planetary boundaries.

Adopting a wellbeing-centred approach would enable the EU to tackle social-ecological risks linked to the triple planetary crises, to increase fairness, and to transform towards a quality-focused economic strategy. It can inform a sustainable and transformative policy and investment agenda, that goes beyond crisis-after-crisis response. Learning from the past five years of the COVID-19 pandemic, energy and cost of living crises, and at the start of the new mandate, EU leaders have the opportunity to carve out an offer that truly delivers for their citizens amidst geopolitical turmoil.

Our publication is a call to action for EU policymakers across the political spectrum to make the crucial years ahead count for the wellbeing of current and future generations on our planet. Ultimately, we aim to clarify that a wellbeing economy is not an abstract utopia; it is a strategic response to the lessons of history and the need for long-term security. In a world increasingly defined by great power competition, Europe’s best bet is not to be trapped between rival blocs but to define a distinct path – one that prioritises security and protection in the broadest sense. After all, what is security if not the health of people, the resilience of our environment, the strength of education systems, and the assurance of a safe and stable future?

The publication is the result of a one-year-long exchange within a Knowledge Community of more than 60 experts that aims to map the main challenges and provide recommendations to inspire the European institutions in the delivery of their ambition to work toward the wellbeing of its peoples. It discusses the state of play and problem identification, and develops EU-level reflections, solutions and recommendations for 6 interrelated thematic clusters for a European wellbeing economy.

 

Contributors

  • Emma Bergeling is Junior Policy Analyst, Climate and Circular Economy at the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP),
  • Antoine Oger is Executive Director of the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP),
  • Taube Van Melkebeke is Head of Policy at the Green European Foundation (GEF). For further information, contact her at taube.vanmelkebeke@gef.eu.

 

Summary for policymakers

A  summary of the publication can be found here: Summary

Published by the Green European Foundation with the collaboration of the Institute for European Environmental Policies, and with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication. The views expressed in this publication are solely those of the editor and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Parliament or the Green European Foundation. 

Feb 19 2025
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Post-growth Future(s): New Voices, Novel Visions

By Publications

Growth is no longer a viable path, yet the idea of a post-growth society is still struggling to enter mainstream politics. Despite mounting ecological and social crises, policy discussions remain locked in outdated economic paradigms. However, recent years have marked a turning point, with post-growth thinking gaining momentum in European institutions, civil society, and academia.

The age of growth is behind us, but hardly anybody dares to admit it. […] In this publication, we say it loud and clear: growth is past tense. We need to engage now, without delay, in reimagining prosperity and wellbeing beyond growth

This publication brings together 20 authors from across Europe to explore what a future beyond growth could look like. Through diverse perspectives, it examines how post-growth ideas can reshape economic structures, social justice frameworks, and environmental policies. It also highlights how new voices (academics, activists, and policymakers) are translating these ideas into concrete political and policy action. By connecting emerging debates with real-world transformations, the publication contributes to strengthening the movement for a just and sustainable post-growth future.

This publication is part of the Green European Foundation’s work on post-growth in the scope of the project Post-Growth Future(s). It builds on discussions from key post-growth events, including the Beyond Growth Conference in Brussels and the International Degrowth Conference in Zagreb. The publication amplifies new ideas and connects them with the broader movement for systemic change.

This publication has been realized by the Green European Foundation with the support of  the Institute of Political Ecology and the Heinrich Böll Stiftung, as well as with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication.

Jan 23 2025
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Yellow Vest and the Green Deal

By Publications

Context

In late 2018, France witnessed a social movement that profoundly impacted public consciousness: the Yellow Vest movement. Week after week, tens of thousands of people gathered at roundabouts and in the streets, sparked by opposition to higher carbon taxes on fuel. This movement has since become a pivotal point in discussions about achieving an ecological transition. But who were the Yellow Vests, and how did they relate to ecological issues?

This report amplifies the voices of those who transformed public spaces into platforms for political expression. Their actions conveyed a strong demand to be seen, heard, and included in decisions shaping their futures. Spanning rural and urban settings, the Yellow Vest movement highlights the urgent need to harmonize ecological objectives with social justice. It calls into question governance structures and pushes for fairer, more inclusive decision-making processes.

The report begins with an essay by Kevin Puisieux, director of the Fondation de l’Écologie Politique, which examines the tensions between social equity and ecological imperatives. Drawing from the Yellow Vest movement, Puisieux explores the contradictions of a just transition while proposing pathways to bridge grassroots demands with institutional policies. This essay is supported by firsthand testimonies, reflective interviews, and in-depth research.

This publication does not offer simple solutions but invites readers to confront the complexities of these intertwined challenges. It encourages us to rethink long-standing assumptions and envision a Europe where social and ecological justice advance hand in hand.

About the authors

Kevin Puisieux – Director of the Fondation de l’Écologie Politique
Pierre Blavier – Research fellow at the CNRS / Clersé
Etienne Walker – Lecturer in geography at the University of Caen Normandy
Chloé Alexandre – Doctoral Candidate in Political Science, Sciences Po Grenoble, UGA
Alix Levain – Research Fellow in Anthropology, AMURE
Simon Persico – Professor of Political Science, Sciences Po Grenoble Université Grenoble-Alpes – PACTE
Magali Della Sudda – Research Fellow in Political Science – Centre Emile Durkheim

Nov 21 2024
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Boosting Participation in the Energy Transition: Five action areas for the new EU policy cycle

By Publications

The transition to a green economy can protect European households from volatile fossil fuel prices through cheap and safe renewables, strengthen democracy and reduce the magnitude and impacts of the climate crisis. But more needs to be done to ensure that every person and community benefits. 

The policy briefs collected in this report describe practical steps that EU institutions should take to boost fair participation in the energy transition and have been prepared based on the expertise of a diverse group of experts. They cover five action areas, ranging from optimisation of energy sharing, electricity tariffs and renovation and renewable heating and cooling, to improving procedures for just transition governance and facilitating local management of the transition. 

“Europe should lead the way into the Green Age, but must take care that no one is left behind.” 

Five areas for action

We encourage you to explore each of the five individual policy briefs featured in this section or access the complete collection in the publication below:

Just Transition governance

Renovation and renewable heating and cooling

Electricity tariff design

Energy sharing

Local management

 

About the authors

  • Kalina Arabadjieva is a Senior Researcher at the European Trade Union Institute.
  • Marine Cornelis is Founder and Executive Director at Next Energy Consumer.
  • Béla Galgóczi is a Senior Researcher at the European Trade Union Institute.
  • David Ritter is Senior Researcher at Öko‐Institut.
  • Claire Roumet is responsible for Strategic Partnerships, EU Policy and Overall Coordination at Energy Cities.
  • Hélène Sibileau is Senior Policy Advisor at Buildings Performance Institute Europe.

About the editors

  • Taube Van Melkebeke is Head of Policy at the Green European Foundation. She leads the different Knowledge Communities of the Foundation.
  • Jörg Mühlenhoff is Head of European Energy Transition Programme at Heinrich‐Böll‐Stiftung European Union and has co‐led the work of this Knowledge Community.
  • Matthew Jones is a consultant, writer and editor who coordinated the work of this Knowledge Community.

For further information, contact Matthew Jones at matthew.jones@gef.eu.

This policy brief is published with the support of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union. The analysis and opinions expressed in this report reflect the views of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union. 

Jun 17 2024
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Green Approaches to Security and Defence

By Publications

In a shifting geopolitical landscape, Greens are grappling with the interplay between their traditional pacifist roots and the post-February 2022 security challenges. This report delves into their evolving stances on key defence issues, from EU military cooperation to disarmament, offering insights into the varied approaches adopted by Green parties from eight EU countries. Expert viewpoints featured throughout provide further feedback and inputs as to what a Green defence policy could (or should) look like. As Europe navigates turbulent waters, the report calls for renewed commitment to progressive and principled approaches to security and defence.

The report is structured into five chapters that address important EU military challenges. They portray a nuanced understanding of European security dynamics among Green parties, reflecting varying national contexts, strategic cultures, and historical perspectives. This report thus provides a clear mapping of green defence thinking across Europe, including points of convergence, gaps, and tensions. Complemented by the expert views, it gives a solid basis for further discussion within and beyond the Greens, to strengthen defence and security policy while maintaining a critical and progressive voice, even in uncertain times.

Chapter 1 delves into the complex institutional landscape of security and defence in Europe. It examines the debates surrounding the identity of the EU and looks at the respective roles of the EU and NATO as security providers.

Chapter 2 focuses on military expenditures and budget allocation. It discusses differing perspectives among Green parties on the use of GDP to set defence government budgets and on how these should be allocated.

Chapter 3 explores Green parties’ opinions on defence industrial policies broadly understood. It examines Green positions on grant programs put in place by the EU and shows diverging opinions on the allocation of public funds to industry.

Chapter 4 analyses positions on nuclear deterrence, disarmament, and arms control. Green parties generally continue to oppose the doctrine of nuclear deterrence, but the war in Ukraine has led some to revise their position on its effectiveness.

Chapter 5 delves into the intertwined concepts of civic militarism, civil protection and non-violence; their implications for military involvement in security as well as civilian participation to defence.

 

This report is a call to action for Green parties to embrace their role as catalysts for progressive security policies. By navigating the complexities of modern security with creativity, Greens can contribute to shaping a peace-oriented, sustainable, and common European security architecture.

 

About the authors

Agatha Verdebout is a researcher and deputy director at GRIP. Her main area of expertise is international peace and security law.

Anne Xuan Nguyen is a researcher at GRIP. Working more broadly on security and environmental issues, she specializes in conflict-related pollution and its remediation.

 

This report is also available in:

Greek – German

This study was conducted by the Green European Foundation with the support of Etopia , Cogito , Cooperation and Development Network Eastern Europe, and Sustainable Development Forum Green Window . The study was commissioned by GEF to the Groupe de recherche et d’information sur la paix et la sécurité (GRIP). It is published with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The views expressed in this publication are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Parliament or the Green European Foundation.

Jun 17 2024
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The Future of the EU’s Energy Project

By Publications

This report  – resulting out of GEF’s Knowledge Communities – aims to serve as a compass for more ambitious, systemic, and inclusive debates on the topic of the EU’s energy project.

Despite its societal, political and democratic significance, energy policy is often viewed as largely technocratic, market-oriented and somewhat opaque, leaving it highly susceptible to backlash. If it can break free from this restrictive framework, the EU’s energy project can transform from a contentious political battleground into a unifying European flagship that enhances cohesion, prosperity, security, resilience, climate action, and global justice.

This report identifies four interconnected areas of critical importance for the energy project: energy security, social aspects, climate and sustainability, and democracy. For each of these dimensions, it highlights current gaps and offers political proposals. The goal of this publication is to ignite and inform political and public debates, ultimately freeing energy policy from its technocratic confines and unlocking systemic green and progressive visions for the future of the EU’s energy project.

 

About the contributing experts

  • Benjamin Denis is a Senior Policy Advisor and Head of Industrial Policy Coordination at IndustriAll Europe.
  • Joanna Maćkowiak-Pandera is the Founder and Head of Forum Energii.
  • Rosa Martínez is the State Secretary for Social Rights in Spain.
  • Antoine Oger is the Research Director for Global Challenges and SDGs at the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP).
  • Jesse Scott is Adjunct at Hertie School Berlin and Visiting Fellow at DIW Berlin.

 

About the editors

  • Edouard Gaudot is a teacher, consultant and writer who has contributed to the project as a penholder of the policy briefs that give shape to this report.
  • Taube Van Melkebeke is Head of Policy at the Green European Foundation (GEF). She leads the different Knowledge Communities of the foundation. For further information, contact her at taube.vanmelkebeke@gef.eu.

 

 

This policy brief has been realised by the Green European Foundation with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication.

Jun 14 2024
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Enough – Thriving Societies Beyond Growth

By Publications

The ecological crisis shows that infinite growth on a finite planet is impossible. Meanwhile, the current economic system fails to secure livelihoods and exacerbates inequalities. There is an alternative to this self-destructive system: an economy of enough, which would provide for everyone’s basic needs while addressing greed and overconsumption.

The EU has the potential to lead the ecological transition. Although the Green Deal was a significant step forward, it remains entrenched in a growth-addicted economy centered on competition within a single market, and it does not sufficiently address social inequality. We need to envision a different European economy, rooted in a new paradigm, before we can build it.

In this essay, the authors build on the work of visionaries, both past and present, recognising that Earth is on loan to us from future generations. They explore how societies can thrive without depending on economic growth. The essay presents a compelling vision: fewer private jets, less inequality, fewer burnouts, and reduced waste, alongside more quality of life, more time for each other, more sustainable products, and a healthier planet. In other words, this essay provides the keys to imagining a different Europe – one that ensures a good life for everyone within the planet’s limits.

The ecological crisis in its entirety, including climate change, biodiversity loss and all its other facets, is without doubt the greatest challenge of our lifetime. […] For this reason, grand projects like the European Green Deal have begun to address social dimensions to guarantee that the transition is a just one.

About the authors

  • Dirk Holemans is director of Think Tank Oikos and former co-president of the Green European Foundation.
  • Lara Ferrante is a staff member at Oikos and wrote a master’s thesis on degrowth.
  • Elze Vermaas is a staff member at Oikos and former vice-chair of the Dutch young green think tank Jong Wetenschappelijk Bureau GroenLinks.

 

Endorsements

“Have you ever wondered how our social, economic and ecological crises are connected, and what we could do about them? This short and perfect book demonstrates how a ‘Wellbeing Economy For All’ addresses the interconnected crises of our time, and imaginatively motivates us to be part of its realization.” — Julia Steinberger

 

“For too long, the planetary crisis has loomed as a monstrous inevitability. But what if we dared to imagine otherwise? Enough paints a vibrant picture of a society that has transcended the limitations of endless growth, prioritising ecological well-being and human connection. It takes on the difficult task of envisioning a future where societies can thrive beyond the shackles of constant expansion and in harmony with the natural world.” — Amitav Ghosh

 

“This book does crucial work in offering vision, delivering hope and providing a way forward from a world where we are trashing the planet while creating miserable societies. It works towards a model for living within the limits of this fragile planet while allowing humans to thrive in a healthy future.” — Natalie Bennett

 

“Enough is a brilliant combination of imaginative vision, conceptual clarity and concrete proposals. A necessary handbook for an ecological civilisation.” — Roman Krznaric

 

“Enough challenges us to look beyond the current economic models that form the root cause of the climate crisis. If our human society is to survive this century, fundamental change is inescapable. This means embracing enough, coupled with a profound decolonisation of current world relations and building true democracy.” — Anuna De Wever

 

Book tour

With book tour events across Belgium, Croatia, Ireland, the UK, Finland, and Sweden, GEF is using this book to spark conversations across the continent on how Europe can reconcile social and ecological justice in a wellbeing project for all. You can watch the recordings here. 

 

This publication has been realised with the support of Oikos Think Tank and the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication.

Jun 12 2024
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A European Green Caring Society: Overcoming Fragmentation

By Publications

About

This policy brief examines the interconnections between care for the climate, biodiversity and the environment on the one hand and care for humans on the other. We argue that the related systems are currently in a twin crisis and advocate for integrated political solutions. As Europe transitions from a legislative term dominated by a pandemic and an escalating ecological emergency, which required significant green and human care policy initiatives, the new mandate presents an opportunity to unify these agendas and strengthen both systems. Adopting a green caring society approach can foster collaboration among decision-makers committed to a sustainable, resilient, and positive European future. Key proposals include extending the Do No Harm principle to encompass both human and environmental care, fostering a green care sector, implementing ecological and progressive tax reforms, establishing a People’s Sovereignty Fund and creating a new Commission Vice-Presidency for Caring Societies. These initiatives aim to bridge policy silos, promote sustainability, and ensure social equity, thus fostering a resilient and inclusive European society. This approach can bring the EU closer to its citizens and enhance overall well-being while respecting the planet’s boundaries. This unified approach of green and care policy strands has the potential to significantly enhance public support for the European project and ensure a sustainable, resilient future for all.

 

Contributors

  • Céline Charveriat, Core expert of this Knowledge Community, the Founder and Director of Pro(to)topia and Adjunct Professor at PSIA. She is an independent environmentalist and former Executive Director at the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP).
  • Taube Van Melkebeke is Head of Policy at the Green European Foundation (GEF). She leads the different Knowledge Communities of the foundation. For further information, contact her at taube.vanmelkebeke@gef.eu.

 

 

This policy brief has been realised by the Green European Foundation with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication.

May 27 2024
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The Future of the EU’s Energy Project: Democratic dimension

By Publications

About

This policy brief considers the democratic dimension of the EU’s energy project. It looks at the links between political systems, energy sources and technological systems, as well as the democratic challenges and opportunities created by the need to drastically change our energy production and consumption patterns.

It is the last of four briefs exploring the various dimensions of the EU’s energy project, all based on expert input and discussions among the GEF Knowledge Communities. The other three deal with energy security, the social dimension, and climate and sustainability. 

Energy democracy can be seen as the glue binding all these other dimensions together, since it is relevant across the full spectrum of energy issues: continuity of supply, access, affordability and sustainability. It is therefore critical to the success of the energy project as a whole. To move its agenda forward, we propose a framework based on various governance levels, at which the democratic dimension of energy can be implemented and strengthened.

 

Contributors

  • Benjamin Denis, Core expert of this Knowledge Community, Senior Policy Advisor and Head of Industrial Policy Coordination at IndustriAll Europe.
  • Joanna Maćkowiak-Pandera, Core expert of this Knowledge Community, Founder and Head of Forum Energii.
  • Antoine Oger, Core expert of this Knowledge Community and Research Director, Global Challenges and SDGs at the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP).
  • Jesse Scott, Core expert of this Knowledge Community, Adjunct at Hertie School Berlin and Visiting Fellow at DIW Berlin.
  • Taube Van Melkebeke, Head of Policy at the Green European Foundation (GEF). She leads the different Knowledge Communities of the foundation. For further information, contact her at taube.vanmelkebeke@gef.eu.

 

This policy brief has been realised by the Green European Foundation with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication.

May 15 2024
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The Future of the EU’s Energy Project: Climate dimension

By Publications

About

This policy brief considers the climate and sustainability dimension of the EU’s energy project. It identifies several gaps in the current state of the EU’s climate and energy intersection and delves into emerging needs, concerns, priorities, and potential unintended consequences of the green transition policy.

We propose closing existing policy gaps, strengthening the climate dimension of the EU’s energy project from a holistic point of view. This includes focusing on key areas such as:

  • Monitoring and long-term strategic planning of both targets and infrastructure;
  • Renewed European solidarity;
  • The need to look outside of the EU borders.
This is the third out of four briefs that delve into different dimensions of the EU’s energy project. All these briefs are informed by expert insights and discussions within the GEF Knowledge Communities.  The remaining three focus on energy security, social aspects, and democracy.

 

 

Contributors

  • Benjamin Denis, Core expert of this Knowledge Community, Senior Policy Advisor and Head of Industrial Policy Coordination at IndustriAll Europe.
  • Joanna Maćkowiak-Pandera, Core expert of this Knowledge Community, Founder and Head of Forum Energii
  • Rosa Martinez, Core expert of this Knowledge Community, Green European Journal Board Member and State Secretary for Social Rights in Spain.
  • Antoine Oger, Core expert of this Knowledge Community and Research Director, Global Challenges and SDGs at the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP).
  • Jesse Scott, Core expert of this Knowledge Community, Adjunct at Hertie School Berlin and Visiting Fellow at DIW Berlin.
  • Taube Van Melkebeke, Head of Policy at the Green European Foundation (GEF). She leads the different Knowledge Communities of the foundation. For further information, contact her at taube.vanmelkebeke@gef.eu.

 

This policy brief has been realised by the Green European Foundation with the financial support of the European Parliament to the Green European Foundation. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content of this publication.