The event was attended by Italy’s Minister for Labour, Andrea Orlando, as well as Elena Bonetti, the Minister for Equal Opportunities and Family.
In his address, Orlando stated that a boost in wages was long overdue and highlighted the rising cost of living.
“We need to take decisive action to resolve two issues faced by a rising percentage of workers: the poverty experienced by full-time employees, and wage trends,” Orlando said.
“Around 12 to 13 per cent of workers are below the poverty line.
“Unchecked, these issues will lead to an increase in inequality.”
Orlando posited that “fiscal responses, collective bargaining mechanisms and the setting of a new minimum wage” would be necessary to enact change.
Bonetti discussed the merits of a new certification system to be launched in July, that aims to encourage employers to guarantee equality in the workplace.
“This type of certification is the first of its kind,” she said.
“It creates a reward system for companies that actively pursue equal opportunities for their employees and create a system of parity in their hiring processes.
“Evidence has shown that this approach leads to an increase of females in leadership positions.
“Companies who are granted the certification will enjoy a range of financial benefits, such as lower labour and procurement costs.”
