Editorial: El País

• The shadow economy is a global issue impacting individuals and states.
• Six out of ten workers operate outside the law globally, especially in emerging economies.
• Informality conditions make workers more vulnerable and limit their access to regulated and better-paid jobs.
• The OECD suggests strengthening social protection and training, and facilitating entry into the formal economy.
• Spain has managed to reduce its shadow economy, from 20-25% of GDP to less than 15% currently.
• The pandemic has helped to bring informal employment to light, due to the need for documentation to access aid.
• Despite progress, efforts are still needed to reduce informality in certain sectors, such as the hiring of irregular workers.

Conclusion: The fight against the shadow economy is crucial for worker protection and policy development of states. While progress in Spain is notable, work remains to reduce informality in certain sectors.

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