Experience- and knowledge-exchange in Ida Virumaa

On 3-4 May 2023, the Ida Virumaa region (EE) welcomed delegations from Western Macedonia (GR) and Sisak-Moslavina County (HU) as part of the exchangeEU programme. The visit focused on economic diversification, reskilling and upskilling activities, and on involvement of municipalities in just transition processes.

Each delegation presented the current situation in their region, and activities related to the development and implementation of their TJTP. The delegations shared information about development opportunities and priorities, as well as each region’s vision. Through discussions of key challenges regions face, it became clear that many of these hurdles are common to all three regions, such as the decline of large industries, unemployment and depopulation, lack of economic activity, and ability to keep or attract residents.

Visits to Kiviõli Adventure Park, the Estonian Mining Museum, and Estonian Energy power plants highlighted attractions, carbon neutrality plans, and successful projects in tourism, energy, and industry sectors, all with a focus on economic diversification of coal regions. Discussions of reskilling and upskilling emphasised employment initiatives such as labour market training, study allowances, and collaboration with employers. The kood/Jõhvi coding school in the Ida Virumaa region was explored as a key site that aims to address software engineer shortages and stimulate local entrepreneurship.

The delegates also discussed the crucial role of local and regional authorities in planning just transition processes, mobilising stakeholders, communicating with communities, and attracting investment. Examples from the Estonian TJTP were shared, including local government investment in eligible areas to improve energy efficiency and social infrastructure.

The visit laid the foundation for future cooperation, including knowledge sharing, best practices, and joint activities among the three regions. Grevena, a municipality in Western Macedonia, and Ida Virumaa will host an additional, focused exchange.