ILO workshop advances Jamaica’s path to a just transition

KINGSTON, Jamaica (ILO News) - On 10 July 2025, the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Jamaica, brought together policymakers, social partners, and civil society actors for a high-level sensitization session on “Social Impacts of Climate Policies: Planning for a Just Transition.” The workshop marked a pivotal step in Jamaica’s ongoing journey toward achieving a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy while protecting jobs and promoting social justice.

Mrs. Dione Jennings, Permanent Secretary (Acting) of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, emphasized the workshop’s significance in advancing national development priorities. “This opportunity allows us to move the conversation on just transition into action. It enables us to look at the green economy and move towards sustainability, ensuring fairness and inclusivity in our discussions, particularly as it relates to workers, communities, and those affected by the transition,” she stated. Mrs. Jennings also highlighted the Ministry’s efforts to strengthen social protection, improve occupational safety and health legislation, and introduce unemployment benefits as part of its support for a just transition framework.

Ms. Marissa Sheppard, ILO’s National Project Officer, Jamaica Just Transition: embedding climate justice in regional policy frameworks Project, set the tone by outlining the objectives of the session. She emphasized the importance of bridging knowledge gaps around climate policies and labour market dynamics in Jamaica’s unique context. “Each session is designed to help stakeholders move from awareness to action, with the ultimate goal of crafting inclusive, practical strategies that create decent work and resilience,” she explained.

Ms. Chandni Lanfranchi, Green Jobs and Just Transition Programme Officer at the ILO’s International Training Centre, provided a compelling overview of why climate policies are a matter of social justice. “Climate change doesn’t impact everyone equally. We must be intentional about embedding equity into every climate policy decision. That’s the essence of a just transition,” she said. Her presentation introduced participants to the ILO Just Transition Guidelines and contextualized the challenges and opportunities that Jamaica faces due to its climate vulnerabilities.

One of the day’s most dynamic moments came during the interactive panel discussion “Mi Likkle Two Cents”, where Government officials, employers, trade unions, and civil society representatives shared their insights on Jamaica’s transition pathway. The dialogue highlighted the vital role of social dialogue in addressing resistance, building consensus, and crafting sustainable and inclusive policies. “We don’t always agree, but we must be at the table together if we are to shape a future that works for all Jamaicans,” one participant remarked.

Ms. Blanca Patiño, Regional Specialist for Green Jobs in Latin America and the Caribbean, turned attention to a critical enabler—financing. “Just transition policies won’t succeed without targeted investment,” she stated. Her session explored how Jamaica can tap into national budgets, international climate finance, and private sector partnerships to support green job creation and social protection throughout the transition.

An interactive segment on the Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) allowed participants to explore how the Programme can serve as a national framework for integrating just transition principles. In his virtual presentation, Dr. Joni Musabayana, Director of the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean, emphasized the importance of strategic alignment and tripartite consensus. “The Decent Work Country Programme is not just a document it’s a platform for national consensus. It brings coherence to diverse initiatives, from green jobs to unemployment insurance, and helps countries like Jamaica speak with confidence about their labour market priorities. With this programme, social partners can move from fragmented efforts to a unified agenda that drives inclusive growth, social justice, and sustainable development,” he shared.

The session concluded with participants reflecting on key takeaways and sketching out preliminary action plans tailored to their institutional roles. These strategies laid the groundwork for stronger coordination and the emergence of a community of practice dedicated to advancing climate-resilient, inclusive labour policies in Jamaica.

As the country continues to grapple with the twin challenges of environmental degradation and socio-economic inequality, this workshop reinforced a powerful message: A just transition is not just possible it’s essential.