About

Future Economy Scotland is a non-partisan think tank that aims to create a new economy that is democratic, sustainable and just. We believe that Scotland cannot overcome the intertwined challenges it faces by making minor tweaks to the status quo, or by simply ameliorating the worst excesses of a broken model. Instead, we must embrace bold new ideas to transform the economy.

Our mission is to develop transformative policies that aim to:

• Decarbonise the economy.We need to rapidly transition to a net zero economy, but how we do so matters. The scars of deindustrialisation – still visible decades on – shows that we can’t afford to repeat mistakes of the past. Our work will aim to rapidly decarbonise Scotland’s economy in a way that heals inequalities, delivers well paid, green jobs and secures a sustainable future for communities.

• Democratise the economy. While the creation of the Scottish Parliament brought political power closer to the people, economic power remains concentrated in the hands of the few that own and control our most important assets. Our work will seek to democratise the economy by giving people and local communities a greater stake and a say over the assets and decisions affecting their lives.

• Decommodify the economy. Eradicating poverty and insecurity means ensuring that everyone’s basic needs are met. But the erosion of public services and the rise of extractive business models have left many without basic security and dignity. Our work will aim to protect and expand Scotland’s public services, while replacing extractive business models with more democratic forms of ownership and governance.