Labor and Migration

The social division of labor and the relationship between capital and labor are at the core of capitalism. Chapter 9 introduces these aspects and discusses national differences in the institutional design of labor regimes, such as the role of trade unions, informality, and wage systems. These are expressed in different reform paths and adaptation processes to the pressure to liberalize through the processes of globalization and digitalization and have a decisive influence on growth and development prospects. The chapter also refers to the transnational character of the social division of labor with regard to migration movements and their effects on both home and host countries. Finally, the chapter highlights the (transnational) attempts to regulate and control labor standards, particularly in global value chains.