As a student of international relations observe, the tension between regions and global policy goals is a good angle to analyze how sustainability transitions happen. It is evident that the region has incapacitated its geopolitical and socio-economic barriers and emerged as one of the key players in defining the sustainability goals of the EU. The region’s strategy of achieving the Green Deal exhibits how the eastern part of the continent envisions the political relations and maneuverers of other countries with an eye to the national economy and international cooperation.

Central Europe’s Green Deal strategy envisions climate neutrality by 2050, focusing on reducing GHG emissions, renewable energy, and circular economies.

The region’s strategy of achieving the Green Deal shows how the eastern part of the continent envisions the political relations and maneuverers of other countries with an eye to the national economy and international cooperation. The policy envisions Europe reaching climate neutrality by 2050, including with specific focus on tackling GHG emissions across the region, increasing renewable energy, and expanding circular economies. Central Europe comprising Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic is well positioned to move towards this transition because of its domestic consumption of fossil fuels particularly coal, and its industrial history which has previously slowed the uptake of many of these resources.

Recently, however, they are in a better position to lead regions Russia’s overall climate approach such as directing policymaking on the EU green deal for instance, Poland, as one of the largest coal miners deeps today.

The political sphere of Central Europe determines the manner the region deals with sustainability. In Central Europe, the populist governments of Poland and Hungary for example have been in conflict with EU institutions on issues of rule of law thus complicating climate cooperation. However, even when there is political friction, these countries are aware of the economic opportunities and the strategic importance of integrating into EU green forward policies.

Hungary, although critical of some EU policies, has implemented European Union renewable energy projects and green technologies. The Hungarian government has aggressively been pursuing investments in solar energy to achieve emission targets set by the European Union and enhance its energy independence. Similarly, Slovakia has been using the European Union’s funds to update its energy system infrastructure which shows that the political will can also be driven by economics in terms of achieving the sustainability agenda.

The pursuit of sustainability in Central Europe goes beyond the requirements of the EU, there are also local coalitions. The Visegrad Group (V4)—Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic provides this environmental cooperation framework that allows these countries to pool and coordinate their positions as well as negotiate with the EU as a single bloc. While the V4 frequently gives precedence to other objectives such as economic growth and energy security

Central European countries are working together to join forces with the V4 Innovation Challenge in order to help develop clean energy and sustainable agriculture practices. The easy access to numerous resources set Central Europe to become an international leader in economics while meeting green requirements across the European Union.

The Visegrad Group enables Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic to collaborate on sustainability goals and negotiate as a bloc.

The green movement throughout Central Europe has taken steps but they still face many difficulties in assuring successful incorporation with the EU goals. Growing economic imbalance between western and eastern regions tarnishes the dependency on fossil fuels and the green goals. Furthermore, the lack of political unity within the V4 does not help consolidate efforts to combat climate change.

Green projects are largely funded by foreign investment which is a critical problem as it poses a risk to their sustainability in the long run. Investments targeted towards climate-related initiatives faced economic restrictions which were addressed through the use of the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility. Global political corruption and incompetence around developing nations would hinder growth which calls for the need for more accountability measures to be set in place.

Transitioning will serve as the basis for Central Europe shifting the balance of its diplomatic relations with the European Union and Conserving the climate in other countries across the globe. By promoting sustainability, the area strengthens its soft power in the EU, establishing itself as a credible advocate for climate action. Furthermore, Central Europe’s successful implementation of green policies may motivate other coal-dependent regions throughout the world to take similar steps.

Central Europe also acts as a link between Western Europe and adjacent non-EU nations. Its dedication to sustainability may boost ties with Eastern European countries and the Western Balkans, promoting regional stability and collaboration. Sharing expertise in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, for example, might strengthen partnerships with nations such as Ukraine and Serbia, contributing to greater geopolitical stability overall.

To optimize its participation in the EU’s green transition, Central Europe must solve domestic issues while capitalizing on its strategic location within the bloc. Priorities include accelerating the coal phase-out, diversifying energy sources, and encouraging public-private collaborations in green technologies. Improving political ties with Western Europe is also essential.

Political tensions in Central Europe complicate climate cooperation, but economic incentives drive renewable energy investments and green technologies.

Central Europe can get the financial and technical support it requires for its sustainability journey by working constructively with EU institutions and aligning with the goals of the Green Deal. At the same time, the region should continue to advocate for equitable transitions that take into account its specific economic and social circumstances.

Central Europe’s green transition is a microcosm of the larger difficulties and opportunities confronting the EU’s sustainability goal. As an IR student, I see this change as a demonstration of the intricate interplay between regional politics, economic imperatives, and global environmental goals. Central Europe’s capacity to negotiate these dynamics will not only influence the success of the EU Green Deal but will also set a precedent for worldwide collaboration in combating climate change.

By balancing national interests with collective action, Central Europe can lead the EU’s green transition, fostering innovation and resilience in the face of global challenges. This shift is not only necessary for the environment but also for Europe’s long-term stability and prosperity.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. They do not represent the views, beliefs, or policies of the Stratheia.