Linking Green Economy with Decent Work for All - A Conversation

They share the conviction that the future vision of a socially just and ecologically sustainable economy is not only morally right, but also economically sensible and politically feasible. Betony Jones worked with former US President Joe Biden to promote a green economy by pursuing an active industrial policy. At the same time, the goal was to strengthen good jobs - because, in turn, good jobs are supposed to strengthen the acceptance of the transition to a fossil-free economy. Sebastian Dullien and his team of economists at the Macroeconomic Policy Institute of the Hans Böckler Foundation have been analysing for years which economic policy measures can be used to combine green growth with social justice.
This contrasts with pervasive social polarisation regarding climate policy issues in both the US and Germany. Following the recent elections, both countries are no longer led by politicians who are committed to actively shaping the transition toward a fossil-free future. Instead, the rollback of climate policy measures is in full swing. In their conversation, our two experts take stock: Where do we stand in both countries with regard to the socio-ecological transformation? What steps are being taken that put the prospect of a climate-neutral future at risk, and what risks can be described for social cohesion and solidarity? Is it still possible to call what is currently happening in these two major economies economically viable? For this discussion, however, the focus shall be on the future - what is the role of policy advice in the joint commitment to a just future?