A national study published in 2016 shows that 2.72% of Uruguay’s labour force has a green job. A green job is defined by both supporting the protection of the natural environment and fulfilling decent working conditions.

The promotion of green jobs and a just transition was the main focus of the 3 day workshop organized by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security together with the ILO from 31 May to 2 June. 35 participants from various Ministries and representatives from Trade Unions, Employers’ Organisations as well as civil society attended the workshop.

Participants discussed national challenges and opportunities for a just transition, learned about success stories from other countries, reviewed sectoral studies undertaken prior to the workshop and examined the possibilities to scale-up national efforts. Among others the necessity of suitable skills development was highlighted in order to meet new green jobs qualifications.

The workshop is part of an ILO project on Just Transition to a Green Economy, supported by SIDA, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency.