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The paper explores the analogy between transitional justice—typically used to transition societies from periods of deep injustice to peace—and the climate change context. It identifies four key similarities: unavoidable interdependence, the inadequacy of current judicial processes, disagreements over the link between past actions and future obligations, and the importance of socio-economic human rights. The author suggests that climate policy could adopt specific transitional justice practices, such as guarantees of non-recurrence, reparations, limited liability, and formal peace processes, to move beyond political stalemates regarding historical responsibility. However, the paper also notes significant limitations, including the fact that climate injustices are ongoing rather than past, the lack of a unified global 'society', and the risk of co-optation by powerful actors.

The document argues that security and development are mutually reinforcing and that a 'secure community' requires a people-centered approach to both. It critiques the dominance of neoliberal economic paradigms in Southern Africa, particularly in Namibia and South Africa, asserting that these frameworks often marginalize women and prioritize economic growth over human security. Through case studies and theoretical exploration, the authors advocate for a gendered approach to development that addresses both practical and strategic needs to achieve genuine emancipation.