Abstract
The paradigm change in our economic model that is needed to put human activity back within planetary boundaries requires a reparation of entrenched existing inequalities. It is also essential to avoid creating new inequalities on top of the old ones. While the concept of just transitions is promising for delivering on this objective, real-world implementation varies in its scope and scale, and existing policies are not much more than a patchwork. The post-war welfare state fails to address the new challenges. This paper describes the role of the ILO and other multilateral institutions, national governments and trade unions in a socio-ecological contract that works for all, provides affordable and effective social protection and reduces inequality, poverty and social exclusion.