This report explores how low- and middle-income countries can incorporate just transitions principles into their revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement goals. Writing for an intended audience of policymakers involved in drafting NDCs for developing countries, the authors explain the evolution of the just transitions concept and provide guidance on incorporating just transition language into NDCs. They suggest a timeline for each stage of the process and identify the resources available to assist in implementation.

Given the common perception that the just transitions concept is mainly relevant to developed countries, this report aims to link just transitions to the circumstances and needs of low- and middle-income countries. The report presents a brief overview of the just transition concept, its evolution and how it became embedded in the UN climate process during the Paris Agreement. The authors explain the importance of incorporating just transitions into NDCs. They call for countries to undertake labor market reforms, identify sectors that will be affected by climate change policies, and engage with all stakeholders to address those impacts.

The authors also present a just transitions “toolbox” developed by the 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP24), organizing suggestions and best practices into three groups: transition of the labor market, sustainable production and consumption, and inclusive transitions.