Italy, the country of poor wages

Over 6 million workers earn less than €1,000 a month: CGIL raises the alarm

Mapping the issue: 62.7% earn less than €25,000 gross

According to the national CGIL Economic Office, 62.7% of private sector employees in Italy earn less than €25,000 gross per year. This includes nearly 11 million workers facing difficult financial conditions despite having regular jobs.

The poverty line: 6.2 million under €15,000 gross

Even more concerning, 6.2 million workers, or 35.7%, earn less than €15,000 gross annually—roughly €1,000 net per month at best. For them, survival means prioritizing rent, food, and basic utilities over any long-term plans.

Structural causes: contracts and low qualifications

The type of contract, working hours, and qualification levels are the key factors. Temporary contracts, involuntary part-time jobs, and low-skilled roles create a cycle of economic vulnerability that’s hard to break.

What can be done

CGIL recommends:

• Raising minimum wages;
• Promoting permanent contracts;
• Investing in worker training;
• Strengthening collective bargaining to prevent wage dumping.

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FAQs

1. What does “poor wage” mean?
A regular job that still doesn’t provide a decent standard of living.

2. How many workers in Italy are affected?
Almost 11 million earn less than €25,000 gross per year; 6.2 million earn below €15,000.

3. What is the net monthly income under €15,000/year gross?
About €1,000 per month.

4. What are the main causes?
Precarious contracts, low qualifications, and unstable employment.

5. Does it only affect young people?
No, it affects all age groups and various sectors.

6. What does CGIL propose?
Minimum wage, job stabilization, education, and collective contracts.

7. Is there a legal minimum wage in Italy?
Not yet, but discussions are ongoing.

8. Are all part-time contracts voluntary?
Many are not—they’re accepted out of necessity.

9. Is poor work widespread across the country?
Yes, especially in southern regions.

10. Does it impact the national economy?
Yes—by reducing consumption and slowing growth.