Protecting Salaries of Frontline Teachers and Health Workers

Jingqing Chai, Isabel Ortiz and Xavier R. Sire
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Xavier R. Sire: Division of Policy and Practice,UNICEF

Working briefs from UNICEF, Division of Policy and Strategy

Abstract: Public service providers, especially frontline school teachers and health workers at local levels, are crucial to positive outcomes for children. Low pay is a key factor behind staff absenteeism, informal fees and brain drain. In past crises, pay levels for teachers and health workers have fallen in real terms, adversely impacting children in poverty areas. Similarly, during the current crisis, initial evidence suggests that real pay levels are falling. Comparing salaries of primary teachers and nurses in over twenty countries reveals that in 2009 many were near the poverty line. Further, a desk review of recent IMF reports reveals that most countries are advised to cap or cut wage bills in 2009-11. Actions are needed to protect pay levels of frontline workers in social services, who are vital to achieving the MDGs and ensuring recovery with a human face.

Keywords: child poverty; social services; salaries primary teachers; public service providers; MDGs (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Pages: 6
Date: 2010
Note: UNICEF's Division of Policy and Practice notes are prepared to facilitate greater exchange of knowledge and stimulate analytical discussion on social policy issues. Their findings, interpretations and conclusions do not necessarily reflect the policies or view of UNICEF. The designations in this publication do not imply an opinion on legal status of any country or territory, or of its authorities, or the delimitation of frontiers.
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