
The complexity of minimum wage in Italy
The sensitive issue of minimum wage has once again sparked debate in Italy. According to Marco Pepe, national advisor of Unimpresa, this problem cannot be resolved solely by legislation. The existence of national contracts that stipulate wages below €5 per hour is unacceptable and requires urgent action.
Pepe highlights the importance of an open dialogue involving all trade unions and employers’ associations, even those not represented at the National Council for Economy and Labor (Cnel). The focus, he emphasizes, should be on the quality of contracts rather than mere representation. Unimpresa proposes certified and controlled contracts as the key path toward greater wage equity.
The EU directive on minimum wages and legal challenges
The recent opinion of the Advocate General of the European Court of Justice has added fuel to the debate. Case C-19/23, initiated by Denmark and supported by Sweden, aims to annul the EU Directive 2022/2041 on adequate minimum wages. The Advocate General argued that the European Union lacks competence in wage matters, as specified in Article 153 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).
If the Court adopts this opinion, the directive could be declared null, releasing member states from the obligations it imposes. This could have significant legal consequences, particularly for countries that have already implemented or planned measures based on the directive.
The unique structure of wages in Italy
Italy’s wage structure is more intricate than in many other European nations, as it does not rely solely on an hourly rate. It incorporates variable elements such as the thirteenth and fourteenth monthly salaries, severance pay (TFR), production bonuses, paid leave, and holidays. Pepe insists that any discussion on a legal minimum wage must consider these components to avoid distorting the wage landscape.
Additionally, social security and tax contributions, which depend on overall income, make it even more challenging to establish a universally fair fixed value.
Toward a shared solution
Unimpresa urges social partners to engage in constructive dialogue that prioritizes contract quality and worker protection. Only through balanced and inclusive discussions can the challenges related to minimum wages be addressed, ensuring greater dignity and sustainability for workers.