minimilönearbete

Minimilönearbete is a Swedish term used to describe work that is paid at or near the minimum wage level. It is often associated with precarious or low-paid employment, including short-term, part-time, seasonal, or gig work. In Sweden, there is no general statutory minimum wage; wages are primarily set through collective agreements between unions and employers' associations, which means wage floors vary by sector and establishment.

Legal framework: In sectors covered by binding collective agreements, the minimum wage is defined by negotiated scales within those agreements. In sectors without such agreements, employers may set wages individually, which can result in lower pay. Public procurement and some government programs may stipulate wage standards aligned with living costs, but the policy landscape is diverse across municipalities and sectors.

Implications: The term is often used in discussions about living wages, poverty reduction, and working conditions. Enforcement of wage rules and equal pay principles is carried out by labor authorities and unions; violations can lead to wage settlements, back pay, or legal action.

Examples: Low-wage work commonly cited includes hospitality, cleaning, retail, agriculture, and some care services, where workers may be vulnerable to low compensation, irregular hours, or limited benefits. Migrant workers can be particularly affected.

Policy context: The Swedish model emphasizes collective bargaining rather than a universal minimum wage. Debates continue about whether a statutory national minimum wage should be introduced, and how to ensure adequate wage floors while preserving collective bargaining coverage and job creation.