Historical Inequalities and Just Transition in Former Colonised Nations

Abstract

The concept of a "just transition" is central to addressing climate change while ensuring the shift towards sustainability remains equitable and inclusive. For a transition to be genuinely just, it must consider the histories, struggles, and vulnerabilities of affected communities, especially in regions with colonial exploitation legacies. Current environmental and socioeconomic challenges in these regions are deeply rooted in these historical legacies, making it crucial to address them in climate action efforts. A theoretical understanding of a just transition must align with the lived realities of marginalised populations.This report examines how just transition policies can protect the rights and inclusion of vulnerable groups, such as indigenous peoples, women, children, migrants, informal workers, and others. Using a historically informed and intersectional approach, it reviews cases from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Sahel, and India, each representing distinct vulnerabilities and resilience shaped by colonial exploitation. The report addresses gaps in existing literature, expanding the just transition discourse and aligning global norms with local realities to prevent the perpetuation of historical exclusion patterns