In this resolution, ITUC-AP points out that the wage crises, preceding the economic crisis from 2007, is a result of failures of over 3 decades of neoliberal dominance while inequality between capital and labor as well as among workers rise. This failure in income distribution starts from the labor market with weaker labor market institutions as wages reflect the labor market conditions. More deregulated, informalised and segmented labour market with downward union density and lower collective bargaining coverage makes it impractical to comply with the fundamental principle of ‘Equal Pay for Work of Equal Value’ and let absolutely lower wage levels persist in the region and makes workers more vulnerable to exploitation.
The Conference asserts a pressing need to shift the growth paradigm from the current market and debt driven growth to income-led growth. This pro-labour strategy , accompanied by legislative and structural policies boost domestic demand and ultimately lead to an equitable, stable, and inclusive growth for a sustainable future. With this the ITUC-AP, working with its affiliates and GUFs to research strategies, campaign for, execute actions, and urge governments towards high-income and pro-labor policies, strong national minimum wage settings, and fair treatment for laborers.