Radana Leistner Kratochvílová: REFRESH is successfully working towards fulfilling its grand vision

The Operational Programme Just Transition, which has provided the REFRESH project with CZK 2.5 billion in funding, is a newly established programme for the 2021-2027 period. It aims to mitigate the adverse effects of the transition away from coal in the regions most affected. In the Czech Republic, this includes not only the Moravian-Silesian Region but also the Karlovy Vary and Ústí Regions. We spoke to Radana Leistner Kratochvílová, Director of the Department of Support for a Low-Carbon Economy Transition at the Ministry of the Environment of the Czech Republic, about the programme and the REFRESH project.

The operational programme is administered by the Ministry of the Environment. How new is this experience?
It‘s entirely new for us since this operational programme is allocated from the national level to individual regions, each with its own designated budget. We engage with all three regions to determine how to approach specific calls for proposals; the regions aid us in gathering project ideas and providing essential information. This level of collaboration is unparalleled. Additionally, the programme covers a wide array of themes, ranging from investments in territorial regeneration to softer initiatives like employee training. The scope of assistance is remarkably diverse, and we strive to target nearly the entire region.

The three regions in question are facing similar issues. Are their approaches to addressing the transition aligned?
Each region is pursuing a slightly different path due to its unique starting conditions. Therefore, they must tailor their activities to their specific circumstances, and we adjust the calls accordingly. For instance, the Moravian-Silesian Region benefits from established institutions and regional agencies that assist applicants in refining their projects and spreading information throughout the area. It can also build on local universities that draw in new students and researchers, advancing research and developing new technologies. This is evident in the success of the REFRESH project.

What level of advantage does having multiple universities provide to the Moravian-Silesian Region, especially in contrast to the Karlovy Vary Region, which lacks a university?
The presence of these universities is a significant benefit, evident in the nature of projects that emphasize higher added value. The excellent collaboration between VŠB-TUO and the University of Ostrava, along with the unique role of the Silesian University in Opava, creates a robust foundation for the region. This puts the Moravian-Silesian Region in a prime position to reap considerable benef its and embark on a different path of transformation.

How does the REFRESH project compare to other initiatives? Does it stand out in any way?
Unlike the other projects, REFRESH distinguishes itself with its ambitious vision for the future. It aims to create opportunities for new students and attract top researchers, including those from abroad, fostering an appealing environment and quality job prospects for them. While achieving this is undoubtedly challenging, particularly in keeping skilled human capital once the project concludes, I believe this approach is the alpha and omega of the success of any region. REFRESH embodies a grand vision and is trying its best to fulfill it. There is also a project at Jan Evangelista Purkyně University in the Ústí nad Labem region focused on harnessing human potential and capital, but it does not aim as high as REFRESH.

The idea that people drive transformation is a fundamental principle of the REFRESH project. Do you agree with that perspective?
Definitely. While we can provide a certain structure, the key factor remains the people in the region. They have the deepest understanding of what is necessary for their area and must engage the local community to foster enthusiasm for change. The goal is to cultivate an environment where people choose to stay, find joy in living, and see tangible progress.

What additional strengths of the project would you highlight? On the other hand, do you see any potential risks?
The collaboration among key regional partners is certainly a significant asset and I consider it a foundational element of success. The synergy between the region, the city of Ostrava, and the universities in the Moravian-Silesian Region is extremely beneficial. As for potential risks, any initiative that relies heavily on a strong vision may falter if its visionaries depart. Therefore, it‘s crucial for the people driving the project to stay involved.

What stage is the Just Transition Operational Programme at now?
The Moravian-Silesian Region is the furthest along, with nearly all strategic projects having received legal approval and entering the implementation phase. Overall, strategic projects in most areas have progressed to the selection committee stage. Within the operational programme, 50 percent of the total funding has already been allocated to projects, which is a significant achievement given that we began a year and a half later than other operational programmes. This progress has been facilitated by well-prepared large strategic projects such as REFRESH.

Can we expect the operational programme to continue in some form beyond 2027?
We strongly hope for continued support. Although we have made progress in overcoming some delays, the transformation of the regions cannot be completed within just seven years. Furthermore, not all projects have reached the implementation stage for various reasons, which means we could prepare them for the next phase. However, this will ultimately depend on the priorities set by the new European Commission, the European Parliament, and the national government. Intense negotiations are expected; 2025 will be a pivotal year for determining future directions.