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Enforcement of Labor Regulation and Informality

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  • Almeida, Rita K.

    (World Bank)

  • Carneiro, Pedro

    (University College London)

Abstract

Enforcement of labor regulations in the formal sector may drive workers to informality because they increase the costs of formal labor. But better compliance with mandated benefits makes it attractive to be a formal employee. We show that, in locations with frequent inspections workers pay for mandated benefits by receiving lower wages. Wage rigidity prevents downward adjustment at the bottom of the wage distribution. As a result, lower paid formal sector jobs become attractive to some informal workers, inducing them to want to move to the formal sector.

Suggested Citation

  • Almeida, Rita K. & Carneiro, Pedro, 2011. "Enforcement of Labor Regulation and Informality," IZA Discussion Papers 5902, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp5902
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    labor regulation; informality;

    JEL classification:

    • J2 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor
    • J3 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs

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