[COP28] Just Transition Workshop by ILO
3 December 2023
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, the intersection of environmental sustainability, gender equality, and labor rights has never been more critical. We had the privilege of attending the high-level dialogue, “Delivering a Gender-Responsive Just Transition for All,” a collaborative effort by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) during COP 28 in Dubai.
The Imperative of Inclusive Climate Action
This event underscored the urgency of integrating a gender lens into climate policies and actions. We delved into how climate risks amplify gender inequalities, particularly in the world of work. The discussions highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on women, emphasising the need for policies that not only recognise these challenges but actively work to mitigate them.
Labor Rights at the Forefront
A key takeaway was the vital role of labor rights in the transition to a low-emission economy. The ILO’s involvement underscored the importance of creating quality jobs and ensuring decent work in this transition. The dialogue brought to light how climate action can present opportunities for job creation, but also the risks of adverse social impacts if not managed inclusively.
A resonating theme was the central role of women as agents of change in environmental protection. Their knowledge, capabilities, and effective networks are crucial for driving sustainable solutions. However, the need for increased female participation in decision-making processes was a recurrent call to action.
Addressing Women’s Unpaid Care Work in the Climate Crisis
It’s crucial to highlight the often overlooked aspect of women’s unpaid care work. In the face of the climate crisis, this aspect becomes increasingly vital. Climate change exacerbates the burdens of unpaid care work — often shouldered disproportionately by women. This intensifies gender inequalities and hinders women’s full participation in the labor market, especially in sectors crucial for climate mitigation and adaptation.
Recognising and valuing unpaid care work is essential in formulating gender-responsive climate policies. This involves creating support systems and infrastructure that alleviate the care burden, such as accessible and affordable child care, healthcare, and eldercare services. It also means integrating these considerations into labor policies and climate action plans.
By addressing the issue of unpaid care work, we not only move towards gender equality but also enable a more inclusive and effective response to the climate crisis. For Malaysia, this approach is particularly relevant as it seeks to align its development with sustainable and equitable practices. Ensuring that policies reflect the realities of all workers, especially those engaged in unpaid care, is a step towards a truly just transition.
The workshop emphasised the need for collaborative efforts among governments, employers, workers’ organisations, and other stakeholders. Formulating, implementing, and evaluating gender-responsive, inclusive, and integrated just transition frameworks were identified as pivotal steps.
Attending this event has been enlightening and reinforces KAMY’s commitment to advocating for a just and inclusive transition. As we move forward, it’s clear that a gender-responsive approach is not just beneficial but essential for achieving our climate goals. Let’s continue to work together for a future where environmental sustainability and gender equality go hand in hand.
The Malaysian Context
Malaysia, as a developing nation, stands at a crucial juncture in its journey towards a just transition. The nation’s historical context, marked by colonialism and extractive economic practices, has shaped its labor market and environmental policies. In Malaysia, labor rights are particularly pertinent as the country moves towards greener industries. This transition provides an opportunity to dismantle the legacies of colonialism and develop a more equitable economic system. For Malaysia, paying attention to gender-responsive and inclusive policies in climate action is not just a global obligation but a national imperative to uplift all segments of society, especially those marginalized in traditional labor markets. This approach will not only foster sustainable development but also promote social justice, ensuring that Malaysia’s path to a low-emission economy is equitable and inclusive.
