One and the Same or Worlds Apart? Linking Transformative Regional Resilience and Just Transitions Through Welfare State Policies

Abstract

This paper explores the intersection between transformative resilience and just transitions, two increasingly significant frameworks in the context of environmental and socio-economic adaptation. Applying a systematic literature review, this paper examines how these concepts are defined and identifies both overlapping and non-overlapping dimensions within the existing literature. The analysis then shifts to consider the role of welfare state policies in reinforcing these connections. Specifically, this study assesses how physical social infrastructure, welfare state provisions, and eco-social policies are able to bridge the concepts of transformative resilience and just transitions. The findings indicate a notable gap in the literature connecting transformative resilience and just transition, despite the potential for aligning these concepts. This paper thus contributes to the theoretical foundation for discussing transformative resilience and just transitions together, underscoring the need for inclusive policies in sustainable development frameworks.