At the inaugural high-level meeting of the Global Commission on People-Centred Clean Energy Transitions, the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) has issued a strong call for policymakers to prioritize social justice in the transition to clean energy.
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During discussions with key figures in the clean power transformation, ITUC General Secretary Luc Triangle emphasized the urgent need for fairness in energy reforms. “Fairness and social justice in the energy transition is too often overlooked by policymakers. We cannot wait until after decisions are made to address job losses and rising costs,” Triangle asserted.
He stressed that fairness should be a guiding principle from the outset of the transition. The ITUC highlighted that the structural changes to the energy system will have profound implications for jobs and living standards globally, presenting both opportunities and risks:
- Job Security and Costs: Without well-designed policies, rising energy costs and potential job losses could disproportionately impact workers, particularly in vulnerable sectors.
- Weak Representation: Industries with lower emissions often have less robust representation in collective bargaining, leaving workers more exposed during the transition.
- Role of Social Dialogue: Emphasizing the importance of collective bargaining and social dialogue, Triangle noted that these mechanisms can improve working conditions in low-emission sectors, ensuring fair wages and stability for workers in the long term.
Triangle also spoke at the COP29-IEA High-Level Energy Transition Dialogue and the Clean Energy Ministerial, where he urged governments to integrate Just Transition principles into their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This integration is vital for ensuring labour rights and equitable practices within climate and energy policies. “Without these safeguards, the transition risks increasing inequality and eroding public support,” he warned.
The ITUC's demands highlight the critical need for an inclusive approach to the clean energy transition—one that not only focuses on environmental sustainability but also on protecting workers and communities. As the global energy landscape shifts, it is imperative that social justice remains at the forefront of policy discussions to foster a fair and equitable transition for all.