Copenhagen Climate Summit: “Just Transition” on the agenda

Brussels, (ITUC OnLine): The ITUC has welcomed news that the text which will guide negotiations up to the December Copenhagen Climate Summit includes a recognition that a “just transition” is needed for workers whose livelihoods are likely to be affected by global efforts to make deep cuts in carbon emissions.

The official “Chair’s Negotiating Text”, released on 20 May by the United Nations’ Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) outlines key proposals on climate change policies, such as emissions reduction targets, technology transfer and funding for adaptation. Trade unions are engaged in a campaign to raise awareness on the need for support for workers and communities in the transition towards a low-carbon, climate-resilient society. The inclusion of Just Transition in the draft is a first step in the recognition that a broad consensus is needed to ensure action on climate change, and that in workers and trade unions, along with other civil society groups must be consulted.

“We are pleased at this positive step, which we believe is essential to ensure that working people are fully involved in building the the green economy of the future.  This will be a key foundation for building broad support for the necessary action to reduce emissions. We call on governments to give their full support to this in the lead up to the negotiations and in Copenhagen itself,” said ITUC Guy Ryder.

The ITUC represents 170 million workers in 312 affiliated national organisations from 157 countries. http://www.ituc-csi.org http://www.youtube.com/ITUCCSI For more information, please contact the ITUC Press Department on: +32 2 224 0204 or +32 476 621 018.