A ‘JUST TRANSITION’ OR JUST A TRANSITION?

Mira Dutschke, Executive Director, Kuhama Consultancy

Monday 19–Wednesday 21 January 5.00 pm COURSE FEES R345; Staff and students R173

Climate change is both a human rights and a social justice issue. Those most affected are those already marginalised, who have contributed the least to the crisis. This course explores how active citizens in South Africa can respond to climate change and seize opportunities presented by the global shift to renewable energy. The first lecture examines the global and local impacts of climate change through a social justice lens, using real-world examples to show how it deepens existing inequalities in the Global South. It simplifies technical terms and focuses on effects in rural and remote South African regions. In the next lecture the concept of a ‘just transition’ to a net-zero carbon future is discussed. This approach, supported by President Ramaphosa and international policy, aims to move away from fossil fuels while ensuring the transition is fair. It prioritises creating opportunities, protecting livelihoods and addressing historic inequalities. The final lecture focuses on the legal and policy tools supporting a ‘just transition’ in South Africa. It highlights the role of active citizenship through democratic and governance structures, especially at the municipal level. Collaboration with

communities, civil society and the private sector is essential to making this transition inclusive and effective.

Lecture titles

  1. Claiming the climate narrative
  2. Leaving no-one behind
  3. Democracy for climate justice

Recommended reading

Dutschke, M. 2024. Supporting Partnerships in Community-driven Climate Action. Democracy Works Foundation.

Dutschke, M and RIA Digital Podcast series: Sibambene: Exploring Community-based Climate Action.

Singh, K and Dutschke, M. 2025. Civil Society Organisations as Unrecognised Climate Action Leaders. Inspire. https://inspire-excellence.net/category/fostering-inclusive-growth-through-climate-change-champions/

TO BOOK: https://www.webtickets.co.za/performance.aspx?itemid=1575456005

 

 

 

 

Mira is a human rights, development and climate change expert who is passionate about making transformative change and reclaiming the African climate narrative. The focus of her work has been on developing innovative and localised campaigns and narratives to deepen social, inclusive and meaningful participation. As the founder of Kuhama she co-creates home-grown approaches to climate change adaptation, mitigation and governance.