By Md. Ilias Miah
The world is at a decisive moment in history. For decades, global energy systems have been dominated by fossil fuels-coal, oil, and natural gas—driving economic growth but simultaneously fueling climate breakdown. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), fossil fuels were responsible for over 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions in 2022, contributing to increasingly frequent extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and destabilized economies. Yet, despite numerous global agreements, there remains no comprehensive legal framework governing the supply and phase-out of fossil fuels.
The First Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels, held in Santa Marta, Colombia, represents a pivotal opportunity to address this gap. The proposed Fossil Fuel Treaty aims to create a coordinated global mechanism to phase out fossil fuel production, prevent new exploration projects, and provide financial and technical support for a just transition. By establishing a legally binding framework, the Treaty would complement the Paris Agreement, tackling the root source of emissions and supporting countries in navigating a complex transition.
Barriers to Transition
The path to a fossil-free future is blocked by multiple barriers. Economically, many low- and middle-income countries remain dependent on fossil fuel revenues, with debt obligations often preventing investment in clean alternatives. For instance, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Colombia rely heavily on fossil fuel exports to service debt and fund social programs. In Bangladesh, despite efforts to increase renewable energy deployment, over 90% of electricity generation still depends on imported natural gas and coal, limiting flexibility for a just transition.
Legal and regulatory barriers also impede progress. International investment agreements, including Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) mechanisms, allow fossil fuel companies to challenge climate-friendly policies, creating a chilling effect on national ambition. Governance fragmentation further complicates action, with overlapping institutions and insufficient coordination between global, regional, and national actors. Without a clear global phase-out plan, fossil fuel reduction remains piecemeal and inequitable, often burdening vulnerable communities most affected by climate change.
Concrete Solutions
To overcome these barriers, experts and civil society organizations have proposed three interlinked solutions:
1. The Fossil Fuel Treaty: This global framework would coordinate the managed phase-out of fossil fuel production, prevent new exploration, and provide financing and technical support for countries to implement just transition plans. A coordinated approach could help Bangladesh secure funding for renewable energy infrastructure, while providing Indonesia and Nigeria with mechanisms to reduce economic dependence on oil exports. The Treaty would also annul or revise ISDS provisions that block ambitious climate measures, ensuring that countries can act without fear of costly arbitration.
2. Reducing Economic Dependence on Fossil Fuels: Countries must implement debt resolution facilities, fiscal reforms, and labor reconversion programs to reduce reliance on fossil fuel revenues. Globally, a Global Just Transition Fund could support workers and communities affected by closures of fossil fuel facilities, providing training, income support, and incentives for clean energy industries. In Bangladesh, such programs could retrain thousands of coal plant workers and create jobs in solar panel manufacturing, wind farm maintenance, and energy efficiency projects.
3. Transforming Fossil Fuel Supply and Demand: Beyond ending expansion, a planned phased-down of extraction and energy matrix redesign are crucial. Investments must shift from fossil fuel subsidies to renewable energy. The UN Environment Programme estimates that every $1 invested in clean energy generates $3–$4 in economic benefits, highlighting the potential for growth alongside decarbonization. Bangladesh’s recent deployment of over 300 MW of solar mini-grids in rural areas demonstrates the effectiveness of decentralized renewable energy in reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels while expanding energy access. Globally, countries like Denmark, which generates over 40% of electricity from wind, provide a successful model for scaling up renewables while phasing out coal and gas.
Equity, Gender, and Human Rights
A just transition requires prioritizing human rights and gender equity. The Fossil Fuel Treaty emphasizes the meaningful participation of women, youth, Indigenous Peoples, and frontline communities in negotiation and governance processes. Upholding Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) ensures that affected communities have a voice in decisions that shape their lands, livelihoods, and futures. In Bangladesh, women and youth are disproportionately affected by climate-related flooding, salinity intrusion, and migration pressures; incorporating their perspectives in energy and climate policy ensures that solutions are inclusive and effective.
Timelines and Milestones
Short-term (2026–2031): The Santa Marta Conference recognizes the need for a Fossil Fuel Treaty, establishes a negotiation mandate, and sets up initial financial and technical cooperation mechanisms.
Medium-term (2032–2040): The Treaty is ratified globally, coordinated phasing out of fossil fuel production is underway, and just transition plans are implemented at scale. Monitoring and enforcement structures are fully operational.
Long-term (2041–2050): Global fossil fuel supply aligns with the 1.5°C target. Sustained international cooperation ensures robust financial and technical support systems, making the transition equitable and climate-just worldwide.
Global and Local Examples in Action
Countries are already demonstrating pathways to a fossil-free future. Morocco’s solar megaprojects and Kenya’s geothermal plants showcase scalable renewable energy models. In Latin America, Colombia’s early adoption of clean energy in urban centers complements the Fossil Fuel Treaty initiative being discussed in Santa Marta. Bangladesh’s solar and wind initiatives, combined with community-driven energy programs, prove that even densely populated, low-lying countries can transition while promoting social equity.
Conclusion
The transition away from fossil fuels is no longer optional—it is an urgent moral, economic, and environmental imperative. Through global cooperation, legal reform, and inclusive planning, the world can phase out fossil fuels while safeguarding communities and advancing climate justice. The Santa Marta Conference represents a historic step forward, and countries like Bangladesh have the opportunity to both lead and benefit from a globally coordinated, equitable transition. Time is short, but with decisive action, a climate-just future is within Future.
Author: Md Ilias Miah is a social and environmental activist, political organizer, and founder of the Centre for Environment, Human Rights & Development Forum (CEHRDF). He leads climate justice initiatives in Bangladesh and globally, advocating for youth engagement, just transitions, and sustainable development policies.
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