Informal labor and the reproduction of social inequalities, a sociological approach

Abstract

The economic changes witnessed in the labor market since the previous century have reshaped the dynamics of employment and unemployment, ushering in a new era of what is commonly referred to as "informal labor. " This phenomenon has become a dominant facet of labor markets in various countries worldwide, characterized by its capacity to accommodate individuals facing unemployment and job seekers, primarily within the realm of self-employment. Workers engaged in this sector confront an array of challenges and obstacles, including unstable and variable incomes, harsh working conditions, diminished social standing, and a contributing role in exacerbating social disparities. According to governmental policies, informal labor is classified as such due to its lack of adherence to specific work classification systems and its partial autonomy from state regulation. The scientific exploration of informal labor has traditionally been situated within the domain of economics, with the majority of theoretical frameworks and accumulated knowledge emanating from empirical research endeavors within the field of economics. However, given economics' limitations in comprehending the social circumstances of these demographic groups, sociology has entered the discourse. In light of this, this paper seeks to examine the nexus between informal labor and social disparities within Moroccan urban settings, employing a descriptive and analytical approach grounded in preceding literature in this field