Why does gender matter in a ‘just transition’?

The climate crisis is already having catastrophic consequences for millions of people and their livelihoods, and for ecosystems, biodiversity and economies. In the effort to transform social and economic structures and build resilience, we are seeing increased momentum and support for a 'just transition' toward low-carbon, sustainable economies that 'leave no one behind'.

While fairness and equity are fundamental to just transition approaches and principles, there is much debate around the gendered dimensions of justice. This online event unpacked the concept of a 'gender just transition', exploring why it is important and how it manifests in different sectors.

The term ‘just transition’ first gained traction in North America in the 1970s and 80s, among trade unions and labour movements fighting to protect the rights of workers in polluting industries affected by new environmental regulations. The idea has since come to refer to a broader set of agendas around the transition to low-carbon societies and economies, and the move away from economies rooted in resource extraction, pollution and environmental degradation.

While there is growing global recognition of a need for a just transition, the term itself lacks a concrete definition. Perspectives on the gendered dimensions of justice and means for a low-carbon transition diverge widely among professionals from different sectors.

This online IIED Debates event brought together leading thinkers in energy, extractives and agriculture sectors to explore what gender justice means for different people and how different conceptualisations and approaches could inform a 'just transition'.

Drawing on evidenced examples, our speakers discussed how to apply gender just transition interventions in different sectors. We learnt about feminist approaches to just transitions and how to include women and gender minorities in just transition processes.