United Nations Radio

Despite indications that the economy is on the rebound, the International Labor Organization in its latest study on global wages says income for workers is likely to decrease further this year.

ILO Global Wage Report

Patrick Belser, co-author of the report, says this finding follows a dramatic reduction of wages last year. Still he says some developed and developing countries have managed to raise their minimum wages.

"A large number of countries, including major economies, such as the US, Brazil, Russia and also Japan, have increased minimum wages by more than inflation figures in 2008, and these countries have also adjusted their minimum wages further in 2009."

The report notes that the decline in wages is often due to cuts in working hours.

ILO describes minimum wages as "an important policy tool for social protection," and urges the involvement of social partners in setting the minimum wage.

Gail Walker, United Nations Radio
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