A power play: How the EU’s energy agenda undermines a just transition

Touted as a values-based alternative to other global infrastructure initiatives, the EU’s Global Gateway dedicates nearly half of its €300 billion investment target to the energy sector. But in practice, these projects often serve geopolitical and commercial priorities over development goals.

This report, titled “Wired for inequalities: EU energy partnerships and the Global Gateway”, investigates how energy partnerships with neighbouring countries—from Morocco to Georgia—are being shaped by Europe’s push for energy security, market liberalisation, and corporate gain. Under the banner of the green transition, EU-backed projects prioritise energy exports to Europe and support European investors, while sidelining local development needs, human rights, and environmental justice.

Through seven case studies, the report reveals how this approach risks deepening inequalities, displacing communities, and derailing a truly just energy transition.