The informal economy: enabling transition to formalization. Background document to the Tripartite Interregional Symposium on the Informal economy: Enabling Transition to Formalization

In the context of the global decent work deficits, breaking out of informality is increasingly seen as the principal development challenge across regions. The issue is central to realizing decent work as a global goal and for all workers, for achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and for promoting a fair globalization. It is against this background that the informal economy debate and possible strategies towards formalization are gaining new momentum at all levels and in various circles.