Just Energy Transition; A Global Responsibility

Climate change is the greatest common challenge of humanity in the present era, and the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy is considered the only viable response to it. However, this process, if pursued without a justice-oriented approach, may exacerbate existing social and economic inequalities. The concept of a “just transition,” as a response to this concern, was initially focused on protecting the rights of workers in fossil-fuel industries but has gradually evolved into a global responsibility. The development of this concept has taken place within the framework of the UNFCCC and its related instruments and Conferences of the Parties (COP). In this context, a fundamental divergence has emerged between fossil fuel-dependent and non-fossil fuel-dependent countries: the former emphasizes the principle of permanent sovereignty over natural resources and the right to development, whereas the latter, invoking principles such as equity, common but differentiated responsibilities, and sustainable development, advocate for a rapid reduction of fossil fuel dependency. The recent Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice has also leaned towards justice-based principles in this conflict and reinforced the responsibility of states to accelerate the energy transition. In Iran, although there is no specific legislation in this regard, existing institutional and legal capacities for social protection and international cooperation provide a foundation for realizing a just transition.