UAE Leads the Charge in Climate Action and Green Jobs at COP28

At the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), the Just Transition pavilion was inaugurated by UAE's Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar. The pavilion, a platform for sharing best practices in climate action, highlighted the UAE's efforts in promoting green jobs and a sustainable future. It shed light on the country's climate change mitigation strategies and the role of green jobs in the UAE's labour market. The event was organized by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the European Commission.

The Just Transition pavilion, an innovative platform for sharing experiences and best practices in climate action, was recently inaugurated by Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, the Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation. The pavilion, which is part of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), has been organized by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the European Commission. The event is being hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

A Step Towards A Sustainable Future

Dr. Al Awar stated that the pavilion is a crucial step towards a roadmap for a more eco-friendly future. He further emphasized that the UAE has always been a pioneer in climate action, engaging actively in endeavours to mitigate climate change. The country's environmental initiatives, including the Net Zero 2050 strategy, which conforms to the Paris Agreement, are integral to its sustainable growth strategy.

UAE's Efforts for Green Jobs

The Minister drew attention to the Ministry's continuous efforts to implement labour market policies aimed at creating and preserving a conducive environment for talent from across the globe. He explained that the Ministry's approach to the green job market is also identical, with a continuous evaluation of future labour market trends.

Dr. Al Awar shed light on an in-depth study conducted by the Ministry on green jobs in the UAE labour market. The objective was to define green jobs, develop suitable assessment and evaluation methods, identify gaps, and propose action plans. These efforts are aimed at driving a Just Transition and building a more sustainable future considering the global impact of climate change on workers and labour markets.

UAE's Green Job Market

He disclosed that approximately 12% of the jobs in the UAE's private sector are green jobs. He further highlighted how the UAE has enhanced its reputation as a key partner and an ideal host for this year's COP, which is expected to encourage significant advancements in global climate action, thanks to the diverse topics and notable initiatives introduced at the conference.

Dr. Al Awar reiterated the UAE's commitment to promoting a climate-friendly Just Transition by implementing pioneering legislation that addresses the predicted social and economic challenges of climate change. The aim is to ensure a successful journey into the future, as combating climate change continues to be a high priority on the UAE's agenda.

Meeting with the International Labor Organisation

Dr. Al Awar had a meeting with Celeste Drake, Deputy Director-General of the International Labor Organisation, in the presence of several senior officials from the International Labor Organisation's Regional Office and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. In the meeting, the ILO team was updated on the newest legislation in the UAE's employment sector, including initiatives like the Workers' Protection Programme, Unemployment Insurance Scheme, and the Voluntary End-of-Service Savings Scheme.

Drake expressed her appreciation for the "productive cooperation" between the General Secretariat of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue and the International Labor Organisation in preparing studies and pilot projects. She stated her eagerness to participate in the seventh edition of the ministerial meeting of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue, scheduled for next February, coinciding with the World Government Summit.

In conclusion, the Just Transition Pavilion and the efforts of the UAE in promoting green jobs and climate action exemplify the nation's commitment towards creating a sustainable future. As the world faces the impending challenge of climate change, the UAE's proactive approach serves as a beacon of hope and a model for other nations to follow.