Towards a green and fair EU – South Africa partnership: cooperating for a just energy transition.

In recent years, the global political landscape has undergone profound shifts. Since the start of Trump’s second term, the post-World War II world order, built on pillars of multilateralism and cooperative diplomacy, has become increasingly fragile. In this context, the need for robust, strategic partnerships between like-minded regions and nations has never been more urgent. Especially the relationship between the European Union and South Africa – a democratic country with similar values and goals on climate action, social justice and economic fairness – stands out. 

A New Era in Global Cooperation

South Africa, as Africa’s most industrialized economy and key player on the continent, represents an indispensable partner. Both the EU and South Africa aspire a mutually beneficial relationship based on the principles of sustainable development, environmental responsibility and an economy where no one should be left behind.

Achieving these goals demands more than a high-flying rhetoric. It requires pragmatic cooperation grounded in respect for local contexts and a genuine commitment to win-win partnerships. This means listening attentively to the needs of communities on the ground, empowering local stakeholders, and strengthening regional value chains and job creation. The green transition of the energy sector bares great potential not only for more environmental protection, but also to create inclusive opportunities for workers and businesses.

The Just Energy Transition Partnership: A Flagship Initiative

One of the most tangible examples of EU – South Africa collaboration is the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), an ambitious framework designed to support South Africa’s transition from a coal-dependent economy to a sustainable, low-carbon future. This partnership is symbolic of how international cooperation can combine transformative change and social justice – if implemented correctly. To be successful, this energy transition initiative requires not just investments in clean technologies but also a skilled workforce capable of driving and sustaining these innovations. 

Multi-Donor Support for Capacity Building

To this end, South Africa has launched the Just Energy Transition Skills Desk – a critical institutional mechanism under the JET Investment Plan. This Skills Desk aims to develop the human capital needed for the country’s green economy shift, ensuring workers are equipped with the qualifications and expertise to thrive in new sectors such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green hydrogen.

The Skills Desk is supported by a several donors, bringing together South Africa, the European Union, Germany, and Switzerland. This multi-national backing provides essential financial resources, while also fostering knowledge exchange and policy alignment, creating a framework that can respond dynamically to challenges and opportunities.

This coordinated approach ensures that investment in South Africa’s Just Energy Transition is not just a series of isolated projects but part of a coherent, long-term strategy that integrates economic development with environmental protection and social equity. By creating a robust labour and skills ecosystem, the partnership can help build resilience and adaptability for South Africa’s workforce.

Green Hydrogen: Promise and Responsibility

The EU’s engagement in South Africa’s green transition also extends to cutting-edge sectors such as green hydrogen. Emerging as a key pillar of the future energy landscape, green hydrogen promises to decarbonize heavy industry and transport sectors while creating new avenues for economic growth. 

Through JETP and related mechanisms, the EU will invest in green hydrogen projects in South Africa. However, these investments must be carefully managed to ensure that a broad segment of the population can benefit from the transition. The social dimension of energy projects is critical: local communities must be actively involved in the planning and implementation, ensuring that new jobs and business opportunities are accessible and that environmental impacts are responsibly managed. Inclusive participation is not just a moral imperative but a practical necessity. Projects that engage local populations tend to achieve greater acceptance and sustainability, helping avoid social conflicts and fostering a sense of ownership. Moreover, integrating local value chains strengthens regional economies, amplifying the positive impacts of foreign investment.

Embracing a shared vision of win-win cooperation

The EU and South Africa’s partnership reflects a shared vision of cooperation that goes beyond transactional relationships. It embodies a philosophy of mutual respect and shared prosperity. The goal is to create a partnership where the transition to a green economy is not a zero-sum game but a win-win opportunity for both.

For the EU, supporting South Africa’s Just Energy Transition aligns with broader strategic objectives – indispensable in times of global political instability: advancing climate goals under the European Green Deal, promoting sustainable development, and strengthening global alliances rooted in democratic values.

For South Africa, the partnership offers access to capital, expertise, and innovative technologies critical for diversifying its economy and reducing its carbon footprint.

The success of this cooperation is based on continuous dialogue and adaptability. With the global development of the energy landscape, also the frameworks and policies that govern international partnerships must evolve. Both the EU and South Africa recognize the need to remain flexible and responsive to changing circumstances, ensuring that the energy transition is both green and fair.