Publications on informal economy

  1. Publication

    Vulnerabilities to child labour

    16 May 2022

    Identifying particularly vulnerable groups of children and their specific needs is essential for the elimination of child labour. This brief brings together the key findings from four studies that each address a key area of vulnerability to child labour: climate change, situations of crisis, indigenous peoples and informality. For each of the thematic areas, the brief presents evidence of the linkages with child labour and implications for policy.

  2. Publication

    Cooperatives and the World of Work No. 14 - Partnerships between trade unions and the social and solidarity economy to support informal economy workers

    13 May 2022

    This brief documents partnerships between trade unions and the social and the solidarity economy in support of informal economy workers. It is based on a research study that involved a literature review, and an examination of selected partnerships through the development of country case studies in Brazil, Colombia, Kenya and South Africa, and validation of findings with organizations of informal economy workers.

  3. Publication

    Understanding patterns of structural discrimination of migrant and other workers in some countries of South and West Asia

    19 April 2022

    This background paper reviews the literature that sheds light on the structural patterns of discrimination against migrant workers in some countries of South and West Asia. It also articulates recommendations that would help officials in UN agencies, international organizations, constituents and other civil society individuals and groups, while referring to the existing evidence of structural discrimination to support the application of international labour standards.

  4. Background Paper N°6 - GEPR working paper series

    E-formalization: The Colombian experience

    30 March 2022

    Background paper for the Global Employment Policy Review (GEPR), Second edition (forthcoming).

  5. A review of country data

    Impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on informality: Has informal employment increased or decreased?

    21 March 2022

  6. ILO Working paper 50

    Crowdwork for young people: Risks and opportunities

    21 February 2022

  7. Publication

    Youth employment in times of COVID

    21 January 2022

    A global review of COVID-19 policy responses to tackle (un)employment and disadvantage among young people.

  8. Publication

    Trainer's Guide: Formalize Your Business in the Gambia

    18 January 2022

  9. Publication

    Learner’s Handbook: Formalize Your Business in the Gambia

    18 January 2022

  10. Report

    World Employment and Social Outlook: Trends 2022

    17 January 2022

    This ILO flagship report details the effects of the COVID-19 crisis on the world of work.