Publication: Jobs Diagnostic for Bosnia and Herzegovina: Implications of Coal Transition
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Date
2024-02-26
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2024-02-26
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This report analyzes the possible impact of future coal mine closures on coal sector workers as well as workers in other economic sectors linked to the coal value chain and the implications for local labor markets. The labor market context in which mine or plant closures occur matters because it influences the capacity of affected workers to transition to alternative employment. Using data from a variety of sources, labor force surveys (LFSs), administrative data from government agencies, employment information from mining companies and thermal power plants (TPPs), and information on mining company subcontractors, the analysis provides estimates of the magnitude and characteristics of potentially affected workers. To understand the profile of potentially affected workers, the study collected both quantitative and qualitative data from coal mining and energy conglomerates (directly affected workers) and firms in the coal value chain (indirectly affected workers). The analysis applies a spatial lens to identify regional differences with respect to risks and opportunities. This report concludes with an assessment of likely occupation and skills mismatch arising from future mine closures and a discussion of policy options to reduce this mismatch. Existing structural and labor market challenges make effective policy design difficult. Policy reforms to address current labor market distortions complemented by new programs to promote worker mobility and reskilling will be essential parts of the government toolkit to facilitate labor reallocation following mine closures and energy transition away from coal. Upstream diagnostics to inform advanced planning before closures get under way are important for ensuring that workers and communities are not left behind. This report ends by proposing a series of actions to fill the remaining knowledge gaps and redesign labor programs and complementary policies to facilitate labor transition that is economically and socially sustainable.
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“Ferré, Céline; Oruc, Nermin; Pela, Kevwe; Ruppert Bulmer, Elizabeth. 2024. Jobs Diagnostic for Bosnia and Herzegovina: Implications of Coal Transition. Jobs Series; Issue No.31. © World Bank. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/41108”
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