In this podcast social impact pioneer, Azfar Khan explores the complexities and transformative potential of living wages.
A topic that seems straightforward but unravels into a myriad of intricate issues: Living wages. The concept is simple – pay people enough not just to survive, but to truly live. This approach has the power to address the root of numerous societal challenges, from domestic violence and health issues to education and overall happiness. Lifting individuals out of poverty can significantly diminish these problems.
However, the reality of implementing living wages is far from simple. Questions arise about accurately measuring what constitutes a living wage, managing geographical variations, and adapting to the frequently changing cost of living. To unpack these complexities, we’re joined by a distinguished expert in the field, Azfar Khan.
Azfar, a Senior Economist at the Anker Research Institute, brings a wealth of experience from his over two decades at the International Labour Organization (ILO). His roles have included Head of Research for Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, Deputy Director of the Socio-Economic Security Programme, and Migration Policy Specialist. With a PhD in Development Studies and Economics, Azfar has also taught at the Institute of Social Studies in The Hague, Netherlands, and served as the Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)’s Global Programme of Training in Population and Development.
Based in Geneva and Beirut, Azfar’s work has focused on social protection, employment, poverty, labour migration, and the interplay of demographic and economic issues. Today, we’re zeroing in on his insights into living wages – a topic that’s more relevant than ever in our world of growing inequality and relative poverty.
Links:
On Qatar Labour Rights Issues: Why it’s time to end kafala
Qatar criticised for promoting slave labour
What Is Basic Income and How Does It Support Wellbeing
UN Guidelines on Business and Human Rights
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