Operationalizing living wages: Collaborative pathways forward

The afternoon series of sessions explores how living wages can be operationalized through inclusive and evidence-based approaches. It examines root causes of low pay and highlights the role of wage-setting institutions, including minimum wages and collective bargaining. 

Governments, employers, workers, and private actors share practices aligning with ILO principles. Emphasis is placed on aligning business practices with ILO wage-setting principles through private actors, global supply chains, and multi-stakeholder initiatives. The role of development partners in supporting cooperation, policy coherence, and institutional capacity is also highlighted. Together, these efforts aim to turn living wage commitments into systemic change that advances social justice, reduces inequality, and supports sustainable enterprises.