Russia

This policy brief seeks to further the understanding of workers and trade unions’ role for climate policy and a fair and just transition to a fossil free economy. It is based on research within the Just Transitions - a Global Exploration project situated at the University of Leeds and funded by the Hans-Böckler Foundation.

This report focuses on the case of Russia regarding its climate policy and the role of trade unions in representing and defending the interests of coal industry workers in the overall decarbonisation process. The report provides an in-depth analysis of Russia’s strategies for decarbonisation, adaptation to climate risks, and the intersection of these efforts with socio-economic factors. The report also explores the role of trade unions in shaping the socio-economic dimensions of climate action, especially in regions heavily dependent on carbon intensive industries.

This case study focuses on the Kuzbass region in Russia - viewed as the heart of Russia's coal production - identifying that there is little evidence of regional economic regeneration and that Kuzbass continues to face socioeconomic stagnation and ecological crisis.