Approximately $11.63 billion is needed between 2023 and 2050 to fund transition activities aligned with the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) by 2030
Bangladesh greatly needs global support in implementing its climate-focused crucial just transition efforts, experts told a discussion in Baku.
According to them, approximately $11.63 billion is needed between 2023 and 2050 to fund transition activities aligned with the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) by 2030.
These efforts aim to establish climate-resilient jobs for an estimated 4.1 million individuals, ensuring that Bangladesh’s workforce is prepared for a sustainable future, they added.
They were addressing a side event titled “Accelerating Finance for Just Transition in Bangladesh: Insights from COP29” at the UN Climate Change Conference in the Azerbaijani capital.
The event was jointly organized by OSHE Foundation, YouthNet Global, and Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Bangladesh, at the Bangladesh Pavilion on the COP29 venue premises on November 14.
Aminur Rashid Chowdhury Ripon, Executive Director of OSHE Foundation, chaired the session. Distinguished guests included Dr. Farhina Ahmed, Secretary of Bangladesh’s Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change; Mustafa Kamal, Head of the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Just Transition Division; and Mandavi Kulsrestha, Senior Program Advisor at FES, Germany.
A just transition seeks to ensure that the substantial benefits of a green economy transition are shared widely, while also supporting those who stand to lose economically – be they countries, regions, industries, communities, workers or consumers.
The concept of “just transition” has been around since the 1980s, when it was used in a movement by US trade unions to protect workers affected by new water and air pollution regulations.
In recent years, the concept has gained traction with reference to meeting climate goals by ensuring the whole of society – all communities, all workers, all social groups – are brought along in the pivot to a net-zero future.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) defines it this way: “Greening the economy in a way that is as fair and inclusive as possible to everyone concerned, creating decent work opportunities and leaving no one behind.”
While this provides a sound basis, perception does vary between countries and regions.
What is important, though, is that each country fosters ongoing dialogue to develop a common vision for what a just transition means for their impacted workers, communities and businesses.
During the event, Dr. S.M. Morshed, Vice Chairperson of OSHE Foundation, underscored Bangladesh’s commitment to achieving 100% LEED ((Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification for strategic export industries by 2030.
Dr. Morshed explained that an estimated $11.63 billion would be required solely to support labor-focused just transition activities and future industry advancements, stressing that achieving this vision will depend heavily on international collaboration.
Aminur Rashid Chowdhury Ripon emphasized the importance of substantial financing to create sustainable, high-quality jobs that support climate adaptation. He called for funding to support workforce development, alternative livelihoods, and social protection initiatives for workers, as well as national-level dialogues with trade unions to facilitate a smooth transition.
Sohanur Rahman, Executive Coordinator of YouthNet Global, highlighted the role of youth in these efforts, stating, “To achieve a just transition, youth engagement is essential. Young people bring innovation, energy, and commitment, which can drive our adaptation efforts to ensure a fair and resilient transition.”
The event convened around 40 representatives from government, development partners, trade unions, and civil society organizations, all of whom underscored the necessity of international support and financial backing for Bangladesh’s climate goals.
