Baku hosted a joint conference titled "Activities of Trade Unions on Climate Change" organized by the Azerbaijan Trade Unions Confederation (ATUC), the National Trade Union Centre of Turkmenistan, and the International Labour Organization's Bureau for Workers' Activities (ILO-ACTRAV).
The event was attended by government officials, members of parliament, representatives of NGOs and public organizations, as well as delegates from trade unions of Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan, the ILO, and the Labour Centre of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
The conference began with the national anthem and a minute of silence in memory of former president Heydar Aliyev and martyrs.
Mukhtar Babayev, Representative of the President of Azerbaijan on Climate Issues, spoke about global climate change, Azerbaijan's climate policy, the "green transition," and environmental protection measures. He emphasized the importance of developing new skills for workers and increasing employment opportunities in the green transition, highlighting the active role of trade unions in ensuring inclusive, fair, and transparent approaches.
ATUC Chairman Sahib Mammadov noted that Azerbaijan contributes to global climate action under President Ilham Aliyev's leadership. Climate change is a global challenge affecting social and labour relations. Changes in the labour market require more flexible and coordinated action from trade unions. Ensuring "just transition" principles, protecting workers' interests, and strengthening social dialogue are key priorities. ATUC continues cooperation with international partners to support the state's social policy.
Chairperson of the National Trade Union Centre of Turkmenistan, Oguljennet Berdiliyeva, emphasized the importance of such international platforms for experience exchange and forming joint approaches. Trade unions must adapt quickly to labour market changes and enhance workers' social protection.
Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Protection Zaur Aliyev highlighted the government's focus on social consequences of climate change, strengthening labour market sustainability, and preparing the workforce for modern challenges and future trends.
Chairman of the Milli Majlis Committee on Labour and Social Policy, Musa Guliyev, stressed the legislative importance of addressing social consequences of climate change. The transition to a "green economy" requires stronger social partnership mechanisms and legal support.
Director General of the OIC Labour Centre, Azar Bayramov, noted that climate challenges demand new approaches in the global labour market, and joint initiatives in labour and social protection within the OIC framework are important.
Advisor to the Minister of Economy, Huseyn Huseynov, stated that Azerbaijan's economic policy is competitive and innovation-oriented. Expanding green economic approaches improves the investment climate and facilitates a more sustainable economic structure.
Sergey Glovatskas, ILO-ACTRAV Head for Europe and Central Asia, joined online, emphasizing that the ILO promotes a "just transition" approach and supports active participation of trade unions in the climate agenda.
ILO Senior Specialist Gocha Alexandria presented on "The Role of Trade Unions in Just Transition."
A panel discussion on "Climate Change and the World of Work" followed. ATUC also showcased a video highlighting recent reforms and innovations in the trade union system.
