Monthly National Update: January
As the 2026 begins, NGOs across the region emphasized inclusive public participation, transparent monitoring, and coalition-building to maintain momentum for climate and social policies amid election-driven uncertainties and fiscal challenges.
In Hungary, the government intensified its election campaign by legally challenging the EU’s decision to phase out Russian oil and gas imports. Meanwhile, the Clean Air Action Group actively engaged in advocacy, publishing widely-read articles on affordable energy and preparing capacity-building initiatives.
Latvia’s Green Liberty closely monitored deregulation trends and prepared to engage with parliamentary commissions on climate funding and civic participation. They also worked on countering deregulation through joint communications and advocacy efforts.
Bulgaria faced political instability and coalition crises that delayed progress on the Social Climate Plan. The Economic Policy Institute submitted recommendations and participated in government consultations but expressed concerns over stalled reforms putting Recovery and Resilience Plan funding at risk.
Poland continued to resist ETS2 implementation amid growing concerns about the 2028 budget. The Institute for Sustainable Development joined multi-stakeholder coalitions to advocate for climate funding and monitored legislative developments closely.
In Slovenia, Umanotera focused on pre-election advocacy, analyzing parliamentary voting on climate policies and promoting complementary measures for transport and heating. They also engaged with Social Democrat MEPs and maintained a presence in national media.
Romania’s Focus Eco Center reported little progress on the Social Climate Plan and highlighted the upcoming end of energy subsidies in March, raising concerns about support for vulnerable households. They participated actively in parliamentary dialogues and just transition working groups.
At the EU level, the European Environmental Bureau continued pushing for timely Social Climate Plan submissions and robust social climate measures despite delays. Negotiations around the Market Stability Reserve reform and governance regulation revealed ongoing political tensions. The European Investment Bank introduced a €3 billion loan facility linked to ETS2 revenues, though its practical impact remains uncertain.
Foto: Pascal Debrunner/Unsplash
