New Proposal for Just Transition Work Programme: A Step Forward, But Ambition Remains Limited
The latest proposal from the Presidency for the text of the Just Transition Work Programme has been circulated, consolidating the options under discussion. While the text contains several positive elements, including significant references to human rights, decent work, and inclusive participation, it falls short on mitigation ambition, particularly with regards to the role of fossil fuels.
The proposal outlines progress on the social side of the Just Transition, recognizing the need for multi-stakeholder approaches, centered on people and based on participatory processes. The text introduces strong language on the human rights front, broadening the range of actors whose participation must be guaranteed, including local communities, workers, informal workers, people in vulnerable situations, migrants, and people of African ancestry.
Positive Elements and Negotiating Victories
The document presents several positive elements, placing itself within the framework of the Paris Agreement and its principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. The creation of the Just Transition Mechanism is a notable negotiating victory for developing countries, while the elimination of the reference to carbon adjustment measures at the border is a win for developed countries.
The text highlights the need for effective social dialogue, respect for workers’ rights, and promotion of dignified and quality work. It also emphasizes the importance of educational systems and skills development, including upskilling and reskilling, as fundamental components of the just transition. The role of social protection systems in ensuring fair and inclusive processes is also recognized.
Limited Ambition on Mitigation
Despite the positive elements, the text falls short on mitigation ambition. The absence of a reference to fossil sources, including the transitioning away from fossil fuels, is notable. The text does not allow for particular progress on the mitigation ambition, with references to paragraphs 28 and 33 of the Global Stocktake, including the phasing out of inefficient fossil subsidies, absent.
The energy transition towards low-emission economies is linked to socio-economic risks, as well as opportunities. Renewables are cited as one of the most economical, scalable, and implementable zero- or reduced-carbon technologies, linked to energy security, as well as environmental and health benefits. However, the text eliminates references to negative impacts related to the extraction of critical minerals without safeguarding human rights.
The proposal is a step forward, but the limited ambition on mitigation remains a concern. As the negotiations continue, it is essential to prioritize the needs of vulnerable communities and ensure a just transition that is fair, inclusive, and sustainable. For more information, read the full article Here