Every year on February 20th, the world observes the World Day of Social Justice, a day dedicated to promoting equality, human rights, and sustainable development. Established by the United Nations, this day serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to address social inequalities and ensure that economic and environmental policies work for everyone, especially the most vulnerable.
In 2025, the theme “Strengthening a Just Transition for a Sustainable Future” highlights the urgent need for an inclusive shift towards environmentally sustainable economies. This transition must address climate change and ensure fairness and social justice for workers, communities, and nations affected by these changes.
What is a ‘Just Transition’?
A just transition refers to a process where economies shift towards sustainability while prioritising fairness and equity. It acknowledges that the move to renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-friendly industries must be inclusive, ensuring no community, worker, or nation is left behind.
For example, workers in traditional industries like coal, oil, and manufacturing must be provided with alternative employment opportunities, skills training, and social protections to ensure economic security. Similarly, low-income communities disproportionately affected by climate change must have access to sustainable solutions and fair policies.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) emphasises that social justice is key to achieving sustainability and that businesses, governments, and civil society must work together to make this transition equitable.
The Climate Justice Alliance has developed their Just Transition framework, which outlines how we can move from extractive economies, those that are regenerative and sustainable.
UN Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
The UN SDG (Sustainable Development Goal) 8 aims to “promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all”. As we transition towards a greener, more sustainable future, ensuring fair labour conditions and economic stability is crucial.
Key aspects of SDG 8 in the Just Transition
Green jobs growth
The transition must prioritise job creation in renewable energy, recycling, and sustainability sectors, ensuring workers are not displaced without alternatives.
Fair wages and job security
Workers moving into new sectors must be fairly compensated, with access to stable, long-term employment that guarantees decent livelihoods.
Skills training and education
Governments and businesses must invest in upskilling programs to help workers adapt to new industries like solar, wind, and sustainable manufacturing.
Inclusive economic growth
Economic development should be equitable, benefiting both developed and developing nations while ensuring marginalised communities are not excluded from opportunities.
Challenges to social justice in a green economy
While the shift to sustainable economies is necessary, it comes with challenges that must be addressed to ensure fairness:
- Economic displacement: Workers in industries that rely on fossil fuels and unsustainable practices may face job losses if a just transition is not implemented.
- Social inequality: Climate change disproportionately affects marginalised communities, yet they often have the least access to sustainable resources.
- Global disparities: Developing nations, despite contributing the least to climate change, suffer the worst consequences, raising ethical concerns about fairness in global environmental policies.
- Lack of policy coordination: Governments, businesses, and civil society must collaborate effectively to implement inclusive policies that balance economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity.
The role of community-led initiatives
Grassroots organisations and community-driven solutions are essential for achieving social justice in a green economy. Across the world, local initiatives are bridging the gap between sustainability and social equity:
- Green jobs programs: Local training initiatives allow workers to transition from traditional industries to clean energy sectors.
- Community-led renewable energy projects: Programs that promote solar, wind, and bioenergy solutions in underserved communities empower people with sustainable, affordable power.
- Education and advocacy: Raising awareness and equipping communities with knowledge on environmental justice ensures long-term participation in shaping a fairer future.
One of the key global efforts in this space is the Global Coalition for Social Justice, launched by the ILO to advance fair labour policies, strengthen multilateral collaboration, and tackle social justice gaps on an international scale.
Aligning with the values of The Community Revolution
At The Community Revolution (TCR), we believe social justice and sustainability must go hand in hand. Our work focuses on education, technology, and activism, empowering people to build resilient, equitable communities.
By supporting climate justice initiatives, advocating for fair policies, and promoting community-led sustainability projects, we contribute to a world where economic progress does not come at the cost of social equity.
On this World Day of Social Justice, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a society where no one is left behind in the journey toward a sustainable future.
How you can get involved
- Educate yourself and others: Learn more about transition policies and their impact on communities worldwide.
- Advocate for change: Support policies that promote fairness in sustainability, including green job programs and climate justice initiatives.
- Engage with your community: Volunteer with organisations that promote social justice and sustainable development.
- Support sustainable businesses: Choose companies and initiatives prioritising ethical labour practices and environmental responsibility.
As we mark the World Day of Social Justice 2025, let’s take action to ensure that the future we build is greener and fairer for all.
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Together, we can strengthen a just transition and create a sustainable world for future generations!
Credits
- Words by Tiwalade Aladesuru
- Hero image by Stephen Williamson