About IOE:

IOE is the largest private sector network in the world, representing 50 million businesses through 150 national employers’ and business organisations. IOE is the sole representative of business in social and employment policy debates taking place at the International Labour Organization (ILO), the United Nations, G20 and other global forums. IOE is recognised for its unique expertise, advocacy, and influence as a powerful and balanced voice for business at the international level. IOE consolidates the perspectives and priorities of national employers’ and      business organisations in one single, effective, and coherent voice. Our vision is to create a sustainable economic environment worldwide, promoting free enterprise that is fair and beneficial to both business and society.

Background:

The International Organisation of Employers (IOE) is committed to facilitating sustainable economic development and enhancing the role of Employer and Business Membership Organisations (EBMOs) in advocating for practical, demand-driven policy solutions that tackle informality. In 2021, the IOE published a position paper, “The informal economy: an employers’ approach”, which highlighted the significant role EBMOs could play in addressing informality.

Informality is complex, affecting over 61% of the world's working population, predominantly in emerging and developing economies. Informality is not merely a binary state but exists on a continuum, often entwined with formal economic activities and creating a challenging environment for policymaking and implementation. Key areas for action include fostering a business-enabling environment, implementing flexible labour laws, enhancing social protection, providing access to credit, securing property rights, and focusing on skills development and education. Digital transformation can also play a critical role in reshaping informality, offering both opportunities and challenges.

About the consultancy:

The aim of this consultancy is to build upon IOE’s existing work on informality through comprehensive research that will showcase innovative approaches to tackle informality.  The final research document should be between 15-20 pages. The research will:

• Cover case study interviews from EBMOs across eight distinct national contexts (India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Montenegro, Kenya, Nigeria, Brazil, and Mexico), considering the unique challenges and strategies relevant to each context
• Explore innovative approaches and best practices employed by social partners, including governments, businesses, and workers' groups, in tackling informality across various countries.
• Review the effectiveness of different policies and initiatives, examining their impact on transitioning from informal to formal economies and their implications for economic growth, productivity, and workers' rights.
• Generate comprehensive recommendations, fostering a multi-faceted approach to addressing informality, considering local contexts, and aligning with international standards such as ILO Recommendation concerning the Transition from the Informal to the Formal Economy (R.204).

Timeline: 11 March to 31 May 2024

Location: Home based/Remote

Competencies:

• English speaker
• Knowledge and understanding of labour markets and employment policies
• Knowledge and experience of business and the private sector in developing countries
• Knowledge and understanding of labour markets and employment policies
• Knowledge and experience of employers’ and business organisations is a plus
• At least 8 years of work experience

Additional information:

The consultant will work independently and will address statutory contributions in their country of residence. You must be registered as an independent consultant in your country of residence, affiliated with a university, or working through a registered organisation/company to apply for this consultancy.

Funding:

the total funding available is 5000 EUR

Deadline for application:

4 March 2024

How to apply:

please send your CV to projectprocurement@ioe-emp.com with the subject: Informality2024.