By Abdullah Lukman
A new report by the Katowice Committee of Experts on the Impacts of the Implementation of Response Measures (KCI), supported by the UN Climate Change Secretariat, has called on countries to more effectively embed just transition principles into their national climate policies and strategies.
Released on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, the technical paper titled *“Just Transitions in National Climate Frameworks and Climate Policies: Experiences in Alignment, Planning and Progress Tracking”* reviews how countries are incorporating the concept of just transition into their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Long-Term Low Emissions Development Strategies (LT-LEDS).
The report finds that while recognition of just transition is increasing globally, its implementation remains uneven. Only 26% of NDCs explicitly mention the term, and few go beyond a brief reference.
In contrast, 65% of LT-LEDS include it more directly, although the depth and approach vary significantly.
Just transition refers to managing the shift to a low-emission economy in a way that is inclusive and equitable—ensuring that affected workers, communities, and sectors are supported throughout the process.
The paper highlights the importance of integrating social and economic concerns—such as jobs, gender equity, youth inclusion, and economic diversification—into climate planning.
UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell, in the report’s foreword, emphasized that “climate action and just transition pathways are not separate endeavors but intrinsically linked components of broader sustainable development goals.”
The report also explores how both governments and private sectors are addressing just transition in high-emission sectors like coal, oil and gas, and transportation.
It showcases national initiatives and best practices, aiming to foster shared learning across countries.
To support implementation and accountability, the paper introduces a new monitoring framework built around four dimensions: distributional, procedural, restorative, and recognition.
This tool aims to help policymakers and businesses evaluate their progress and make data-informed decisions.
Despite growing awareness, the report notes that limited resources and institutional capacity still hinder the translation of just transition concepts into actionable, measurable policies.
The paper is publicly accessible and forms part of the UN Climate Change Secretariat’s broader effort to ensure climate strategies are fair, inclusive, and responsive to real-world challenges.