Structured Research Paper on Labour Problems
I. Introduction
Labour problems refer to the challenges and issues faced by workers in various sectors, especially in
developing and informal economies. These problems encompass wage inequality, unsafe working
environments, job insecurity, discrimination, and lack of legal protection. Addressing these issues is
critical for achieving equitable economic growth and social justice.
II. Key Labour Issues
1. Wage Inequality
Many workers earn below minimum wages or face discrimination in pay based on region,
caste, or gender.
2. Unemployment
Both structural and seasonal unemployment contribute to income instability and poverty.
3. Exploitation of Workers
Prevalent in informal sectors, exploitation includes forced labor, child labor, and lack of paid
leave or breaks.
4. Lack of Social Security
Informal workers often have no access to healthcare, retirement benefits, maternity
protection, or accident compensation.
5. Unsafe Working Conditions
Many industries operate without proper safety protocols, exposing workers to hazardous
substances, long hours, and physical risks.
6. Gender Discrimination
Women workers face unequal pay, glass ceilings, limited leadership roles, and harassment at
workplaces.
7. Suppression of Unions
Workers’ rights to organize and bargain collectively are undermined in several regions,
weakening their negotiating power.
III. Literature Review
• Several studies show that labor union presence increases wages, job satisfaction, and
workplace safety.
• Reports by the ILO and UN indicate that globalization and informalization have worsened job
insecurity in the global South.
• Research highlights a direct link between decent labor practices and productivity, company
loyalty, and national development.
IV. Government and Legal Framework in India
1. The Industrial Disputes Act, 1947
Governs conflict resolution, strikes, and retrenchment policies.
2. The Minimum Wages Act, 1948
Establishes minimum wage levels for different sectors and skill levels.
3. The Factories Act, 1948
Regulates worker health, safety, welfare, working hours, and leave provisions.
4. Code on Wages, 2019
Unifies previous laws into a single framework to simplify wage and bonus calculations.
V. Case Studies
1. Textile Workers in South Asia
Most work long hours with poor ventilation, low pay, and minimal legal protection.
2. Gig Economy Workers (e.g., food delivery, rideshare)
Lack employment contracts, no health insurance, and are excluded from standard labor
protections.
3. Construction Workers in India
Work under unsafe conditions, often without helmets, boots, or health benefits.
VI. Solutions and Recommendations
1. Strengthen Enforcement of Labor Laws
Ensure compliance with safety, wage, and working hour norms.
2. Encourage Unionization and Collective Bargaining
Empower workers to negotiate wages and benefits fairly.
3. Expand Social Security to Informal Workers
Introduce universal pension, health insurance, and maternity schemes.
4. Promote Gender Equity
Equal pay for equal work, anti-harassment mechanisms, and leadership training for women.
5. Corporate Responsibility and Ethical Labor Practices
MNCs and domestic firms must adopt fair labor standards as part of ESG/CSR policies.
VII. Conclusion
Labour problems are deeply rooted in socio-economic structures and require a holistic response
involving legal reform, administrative will, and worker empowerment. A healthy, satisfied, and
protected labor force is essential for sustainable economic development, industrial peace, and social
justice.
VIII. References
• International Labour Organization (ILO) Reports
• Government of India Labour Codes (2019)
• “Global Employment Trends” – UNDP
• “Labour and Industrial Relations” – S.C. Srivastava
• Academic papers from ResearchGate and Google Scholar
