Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2005, published 95th ILC session (2006)

Minimum Wage Fixing Convention, 1970 (No. 131) - Niger (Ratification: 1980)

With reference to its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s statement to the effect that consideration is being given to holding discussions with the social partners regarding the adjustment of the guaranteed minimum inter-occupational wage (SMIG). The Committee is aware that minimum wage rates depend heavily on the economic, social and political conditions in each country and that Niger has been suffering a serious economic and social crisis for many years. Nevertheless, the Committee recalls that the fundamental purpose of the Convention is to guarantee workers a minimum wage allowing them a decent standard of living and that this purpose can be truly pursued only if minimum wage rates are re-examined periodically on the basis of the evolution of the country’s various socio-economic indicators. The Committee  also recalls the conclusions of the Committee on Freedom of Association which, in the framework of the complaint presented by the Democratic Federation of Workers of Niger (CDTN) (Case No. 2288), stressed the importance of a true and constructive social dialogue with a view to remedying the difficult economic situation the country has been experiencing for 20 years. The Committee trusts that the Government will spare no effort to readjust the SMIG, in accordance with Article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, and requests the Government to indicate in its next report any progress made in this regard.