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The National Minimum Wage (NMW) is one of several policy instruments that can be used by a country to address wage inequalities, so said Patrick Belser, a Wage Specialist from the Geneva-based International Labour Organization (ILO).

Belser reiterated also, that the NMW can be used as an important tool to give workers a decent standard of living. He said the concept of living wage was subjective and ILO had recently held a meeting of experts to discuss the meaning of living wage and had to come up with a number of principles to measure it and operationalise it.

“A good labour inspection (inspectorate) is critical in the enforcement of NMW," he said “this is to ensure that NMW is not just a number on a piece of paper, but is a policy instrument that can be implemented".

He said an inclusive collective bargaining can strengthen wage policies and institutions. He said millions of workers across the world were earning low wages.

According to him to address large income inequalities, there was a need to focus on distribution of household income coming from various sources. He said income inequalities could be addressed through effective redistribution through tax and social protection among other factors and also addressing high informality.

The ILO expert was addressing G20 second Group of Twenty Employment Working Group meeting to be held from (8 to 11 April 2025) at The Arch Convention Centre in Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal.

This crucial gathering will spearhead discussions on gender equality in the workforce and the growing labour income share disparity, aligning with South Africa's G20 Presidency theme: “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability". The EWG's theme is: “Living and Working in an Unequal World: Ensuring Decent Work and Decent Lives."

Another focus of the meeting will be the urgent renewal of the Brisbane Goal, set to expire in 2025. This initiative underscores the G20's leadership in promoting fair wages and inclusive economies.

The Second EWG will feature contributions from G20 members, invited countries, international organisations such as the ILO, World Bank and Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), and academic experts.

Media is invited to attend the G20 2 ^nd EWG meeting.

For media RSVP's to facilitate accreditation, please kindly contact:

Mr. Nhlanhla Khumalo: 066 488 0265 / Nhlanhla.Khumalo@labour.gov.za

Ms Ziphozihle Josefu: 082 308 6306 / ziphozihle.josefu@labour.gov.za

For media inquiries, please contact:

Teboho Thejane

Departmental Spokesperson

082 697 0694/  teboho.thejane@labour.gov.za   

-ENDS-

Issued by: Department of Employment and Labour

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