The Informal Economy and Decent Work: A policy resource guide supporting transitions to formality

This practical policy resource brings together knowledge, policy innovations and good practices in addressing the informal economy and facilitating the transition to formality.

Informal employment is a key challenge in today’s globalized economies, not only from the perspective of millions of women and men who earn their livelihoods working and producing under informal arrangements, but also for policy-makers striving to find the right policy responses. Typically, those in the informal economy earn little and have low productivity, in spite of working long hours. Exposed to inadequate and unsafe working conditions, they also have limited access to social protection and weak coverage under the law, and are often not unionized.

Comprising 28 briefs in a range of technical areas, the guide illustrates the multiple policy pathways towards formality and the range of approaches that can be adopted for different groups and sectors within the informal economy.

Drawing on the ILO’s long experience in this policy area as well as showcasing the most recent innovations, this collection will be invaluable resource for policy-makers and others working on facilitating the transition towards formality.