European workers deserve and need a pay rise, partly because workers have been left behind while productivity has increased in Europe – with benefits going to companies and shareholders. But in addition, higher salaries and purchasing power would boost internal demand in the EU, thereby strengthening economic recovery.

A pay rise should help to combat growing inequality in Europe, together with in-work poverty and exploitation of the most vulnerable workers. In 2015, almost 10% of workers in the 28 EU Member States were living at risk of poverty, and the proportion was rising.

The ETUC has launched a Pay Rise campaign which runs until mid-2018 and has been undertaken in close cooperation with national affiliates. More details on the www.payrise.eu website or Twitter #OurPayRise.