Community-Consultations-on-a-Just-Transition-May-2022

Between March and April 2022, the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) conducted a series of community and stakeholder engagements across eight South African locations significantly impacted by the shift away from fossil fuels. This resource summarises the insights gathered from these consultations, which were designed to consolidate community views on a "just transition," build trust, and establish a consensus to inform the national Just Transition Framework.

The consultations reveal a complex landscape where communities understand the environmental imperatives of climate change but are deeply concerned about the economic and social consequences of the transition. Key takeaways include:

*Urgent Economic & Social Concerns: Participants expressed significant anxiety regarding job losses, the need for meaningful skill development, and the importance of addressing systemic issues like poor service delivery, water contamination, and lack of healthcare access. *The "Nothing for us, without us" Mandate: There is a strong desire for communities to be integral to the decision-making process. Participants voiced frustration with perceived government unresponsiveness, corruption, and a lack of tangible, long-term benefits from industrial developments. *Need for Context-Specific Approaches: The report highlights that a one-size-fits-all approach is insufficient. Communities have their own ideas and localized solutions—such as small-scale business support, land revitalisation, and decentralized renewable energy—that must be considered. *The Critical Role of Governance: The success of the just transition is tied to fixing governance gaps. Without integrated planning, accountability, and the effective enforcement of regulations, communities remain skeptical of government commitments and the ability of the state to manage the transition fairly.

This guide is essential for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to understand the on-the-ground reality of South Africa's transition and the necessary steps to ensure it is both inclusive and just.