As societies navigate interconnected environmental, social and political challenges, questions around how to deliver a just transition are gaining increasing attention across policy, research and philanthropy. Dr Anne Monier, Senior Researcher at the University of Geneva (Geneva Centre for Philanthropy) and Honorary Research Associate at the ECI, explores the evolving roles philanthropy could play in supporting systemic change, including how the sector may help shape more equitable, democratic and sustainable models for societal transformation.
The concept of just transition is attracting growing attention from international organisations, businesses, governments, foundations, and NGOs, and is recognised as a key issue in the IPCC’s 6th Assessment Report. In a context of interconnected crises — including climate change, social fragmentation, geopolitical tensions, technological disruption, democratic distrust, and mental health challenges — the need for a just transition appears increasingly urgent. Although the concept remains debated and evolving, it reflects the need for a systemic transformation of our societies. The philanthropic sector, itself undergoing significant change, is seeking to adapt to this evolving context and define its role at the intersection of the public and private sectors.
Philanthropy and the environment: a long history?
Environmental philanthropy dates to the early 20th century but expanded significantly in the 1970s and 1980s as environmental issues gained public prominence, particularly through major North American foundations such as the Ford and Rockefeller Foundations. Philanthropic engagement intensified further in the late 2000s and 2010s with the establishment of specialised pooled funds, such as the ClimateWorks Foundation or the European Climate Foundation (2008). Despite this growth, environmental causes remain relatively underfunded by philanthropy, accounting for only 2% of total philanthropic funding globally in 2021 (5% in Europe). Since 2019, however, climate-focused philanthropic coalitions have expanded rapidly across national and international networks, through the PhilanthropyForClimate movement.
Just transition: a debated and evolving concept
Having emerged historically in the context of trade unions, the concept of just transition links environmental and social concerns. The climate crisis disproportionately affects the most vulnerable populations, who are the least responsible for climate change and least able to bear the costs of transition. These inequalities exist both within and between countries, particularly between the Global North and South. Just transition is a debated and multifaceted concept, that raises today three main challenges. The first is semantic: clarifying the concept beyond its rhetorical use (seen as a “buzzword”) and recognising the role of language in shaping social realities. The second is systemic: moving from a sectoral approach (the “environment” as a cause to defend) to a systemic perspective (transforming our societies as a whole: how we travel, eat, work, consume, produce etc.). The third is democratic and often overlooked: extending the analysis beyond environmental and social dimensions to include a democratic (or political) dimension means making sure each citizen is included in this process of transformation.
Building a new vision for our society
These three challenges call for the development of a new vision for society and invite us to reflect on the kind of society in which we wish to live. Transforming our societies involves rethinking our social contract and, in doing so, adopting a deliberative and participatory approach, in order to avoid a techno-centric or authoritarian approach to the transition. This involves ensuring that each citizen is heard, represented and has a role in this transformation, especially the most vulnerable, who are often forgotten and under-represented. These transformations also require better coordination among stakeholders, as well as a clear articulation of the issues and scales involved (from local to international).
What role for philanthropy?
Philanthropy could play a pivotal role in advancing a just transition and shaping new societal models for the 21st century. Beyond its traditionally claimed functions of innovation, experimentation, and long-term action, it may also assume new roles. By transforming its own practices and power structures, philanthropy can contribute to systemic change. Its cross-sectoral reach enables it to promote integrated and systemic approaches to transition-related challenges, while its position between different social spheres allows it to foster new forms of dialogue and collaboration. Finally, by prioritising the public good and vulnerable populations, philanthropy can amplify voices that are often marginalised yet essential to societal transformation.
Conclusion
A just transition is a complex challenge that requires ambitious and coordinated action. It involves a systemic transformation of our societies to make them more sustainable (respecting planetary boundaries), more equitable (ensuring social foundations for each citizen) and more democratic (ensuring that every citizen is heard, valued and represented). Faced with these challenges and at this pivotal moment in our societies’ history, philanthropy is seeking to find its rightful place.
Further information
Monier A., Cornilleau A., Romain K. (2024) Philanthropy in a Changing Climate: Challenges and Perspectives for a Just Transition, Fondation de France Philanthropy and Society Observatory.