ASSAf Forum on Just Transition

In January 2021, the ASSAf Council endorsed the proposal for a new ASSAf Forum on Just Transition in South Africa. The Forum is to bring together thought leaders and scientists to educate and engage one another in robust discussions. The Forum will provide a neutral, though not value-free, space for engagement by the Academy with labour, communities, business and government across all tiers. The concept was initiated by an introductory meeting of potential members of steering committee on 22 February.

The Committee of seven members, chaired by Prof Harald Winkler of the University of Cape Town (UCT), is tasked with identifying members of the broader Forum to ensure balanced participation (among 20 – 30 members) and to develop a number of founding questions and issues which the Forum is to debate.  As the Forum evolves, it may undertake workshops, consensus studies and other activities, subject to approval by Council. The next meeting of the Steering Committee is being planned for April 2021.