The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) has urged governments to take immediate action on climate funding to ensure a just transition for workers ahead of the COP29 climate summit in November.
The ITUC noted that trillions of dollars will be needed annually to support developing countries’ transition to sustainable economic models. This funding must prioritize supporting workers and ensuring social justice.
At the opening of Climate Week in New York, ITUC General Secretary Luc Triangle emphasized the importance of labor rights in climate policy. He highlighted the landmark Just Transition Work Programme approved at the United Nations climate negotiations last year and called for strong decisions on the New Collective Quantified Goal, which must incorporate a Just Transition with trade unions at the table.
Triangle asserted that climate finance for a just transition must include funding for decent jobs in climate change mitigation, workforce development, support for workers transitioning from high-emission sectors, adaptation measures, compensation for lost livelihoods, and social protection funding.
Eric Manzi, ITUC Deputy General Secretary, emphasized the need for a Just Transition negotiated with workers to bring social justice to the climate debate. He stated that the global union movement will be advocating for strong demands at COP29 to ensure a just and equitable transition.
