Video series

Productivity: The key to decent work in small and medium enterprises

Powered by Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work Programme, this 5-part video series looks into the importance of productivity growth for decent work and sustainable economic growth. It explores its significance in today’s changing world of work, and discusses how labour market institutions and policy frameworks can contribute to it. Within this context, it introduces the ILO Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work Programme fostering human-centered, inclusive growth through improvements in productivity and decent work.

Date issued: 06 September 2023 |

  1. Why does productivity matter?

    Higher productivity creates more opportunity for decent work, as greater prosperity allows for wage growth for workers. In the recent decades, however, the link between productivity and wage growth has weakened globally. Reestablishing this link is crucial to achieving inclusive growth and social justice.

  2. What is productivity?

    Productivity is one of the most important economic indicators. There are different methods for calculating productivity, one of which is labour productivity. What constitutes labour productivity, and why are detailed and precise national statistics on this crucial for decent work and sustainable development?

  3. What is the ILO Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work Programme?

    The ILO advocates for sustained productivity growth for decent work and social justice. Our Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work Programme adopts a systemic approach to promote higher productivity growth, job quality and decent job creation across policies, sectors and enterprises.

  4. How do labour market institutions support productivity growth?

    Structural transformation in emerging economies calls attention to workforce quality and skills development. Here, labour markets assume a pivotal role by facilitating effective communication, ensuring social protection, and enabling collective bargaining for equitable distribution of gains.

  5. Is productivity growth still relevant in an era of climate change?

    Unchecked global warming will likely negate the gains from increased productivity as extreme weather events intensify across countries. How can we resolve this dilemma and collectively steer our efforts towards a greener and more sustainable world for future generations?