Fostering a Just Transition in the Arab States
30 November 2023
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العربية
A Just Transition in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is not just a shift to greener economies; it's a comprehensive transformation of labor markets and societal structures. This transition encompasses redefining skills, fostering gender equality, and ensuring social protection for all. With economies heavily reliant on fossil fuels, the region faces the dual challenge of diversifying economic streams and managing the socio-economic impacts on affected workers and communities.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) recognizes the complexity of this transition and has mobilized its resources and expertise to support the Arab States in this journey. Through collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to decent work for all, the ILO stands as a key partner in the MENA region's journey towards a resilient and green economy.
ILO Response in the Arab States
Green Employment and Skills Development- The EIIP in Jordan generated over 15,400 working days and created 500 green jobs, with a focus on including women and people with disabilities. Furthermore, training in green local resource-based methodologies was provided for 42 engineers, improving local infrastructure.
- A new initiative, the Green Job Search Clubs, has started in Jordan by training facilitators to support young people as they seek employment in the green economy.
- ILO's Cooperative Support Programme in the Occupied Palestinian Territory enhanced cooperative businesses, promoting environmental sustainability, and advanced green technology through training and policy support.
- The ILO has partnered with in the Green Plan in Lebanon which aim to bolster agricultural production through land reclamation, directly supporting 800 farmers and generating numerous green jobs. By introducing a Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) approach respectful of decent work conditions, the ILO is addressing the challenges of food security and sustainable development in Lebanon.
- Employment Intensive Investment, green skills development and private sector support programs in Iraq led to the generation of thousands of worker days and the creation of numerous decent green jobs and green businesses, contributing to local economic and social development.
- The ILO developed training curricula for solar system installation and maintenance, addressing a critical gap in the renewable energy sector in Yemen. The program trained 330 youth and supported numerous women-run solar businesses. Impact assessments showed solar PV systems significantly lowered production costs and increased income for vulnerable households.
- Initiatives in Iraq included improving irrigation systems (169 jobs created), afforestation projects (50 jobs created), and recycling programs (154 jobs created), with substantial investments in green job training and enterprise development.
- Solar energy interventions in Lebanon kept technical schools running and empowered over 4,200 students with practical skills for the local labor market. Furthermore, an assessment of the renewable energy sector has been conducted to identify bottlenecks.
- Jordan’s Green Growth National Action Plan underscored the potential for emerging eco-technologies to create new employment pathways.
- The ILO facilitated regional dialogues and workshops, creating a platform for sharing best practices and knowledge, leading to the integration of labor and social considerations into national climate and migration policies.
- A Green Jobs Assessment in Jordan analyse the employment impact of green policies, thus helping policymakers in Jordan to make informed decisions.
By demonstrating an integrated response to environmental and labor market challenges, the ILO aims to build resilient economies while promoting social justice and decent work for all.