Partners’ conversation - Fostering a just transition through social dialogue

This session draws on recent initiatives and provides a platform to assess progress and strengthen social dialogue in climate and development frameworks. 

The transition to environmentally sustainable, resilient economies is a defining challenge of this decade. Success depends not only on climate ambition, but on how transitions are governed and financed. Global efforts to address the climate crisis and build resilient economies rely on just transitions that promote inclusive growth, business development, and job creation. However, many transitions remain technocratic or top-down, risking the exclusion of workers, employers, and communities. Social dialogue and investment frameworks are essential, yet too often disconnected in national strategies. 

Most climate strategies, including NDCs and JETPs, lack strong provisions for social dialogue or engagement of social partners. Workers’ and employers’ organizations are frequently excluded from critical investment and policy processes. Social dialogue is vital for building trust and shaping fair, inclusive solutions rooted in decent work. Despite its value, it remains underused in climate policies, finance mechanisms, and global cooperation. 

Interpretation available in English, Spanish, Portuguese and French.