The article examines how socio-ecological transformations can be successfully shaped despite growing social, political, and economic resistance. The authors assume that resistance is not an exceptional phenomenon, but rather a normal part of transformation processes. Especially in times of multiple crises, such as climate change, geopolitical conflicts, or economic uncertainty, conflicting goals and counter-movements occur with greater frequency.
The article focuses on the question of how agents of change can deal with this resistance. The authors argue that resistance should not be viewed merely as an obstacle. Instead, it offers important insights into existing interests, power relations, and social tensions. A better understanding of the causes and forms of resistance can help shape transformation processes in a more targeted and successful manner. The article describes various strategies for dealing with resistance. These include building partnerships and alliances, involving different social groups, and adapting transformation paths.
The authors emphasize that successful sustainability transformations do not depend solely on technological innovations or political measures. Equally important is the ability to manage conflicts constructively, build social acceptance, and productively incorporate resistance into the process of change. Resistance is thus viewed not only as a problem, but also as a potential resource for the further development of transformation processes.