Guaranteeing the right to work: a revision of the dual wage scale in view of its capacity to generate work. Regarding the Nissan Barcelona case

Abstract

In view of the disheartening scenario with widespread job destruction in recent years, it seems like the defence of the right to work has lost its validity and raison d'être, as the part of the law that aims to create job opportunities for people who do not have one. Another contributing factor in this opinion would be the dismantling of many public services and resources aimed at creating employment in Spain.

Against this defeatist view, we think that the current scenario invites us to explore new opportunities and ways to act, and to revise institutions and practices that are already consolidated in our society and in the employment situation, from a standpoint that can regenerate our labour market. This is how the consistent practice of a dual wage scale seems to offer a new opportunity for the right to work. It could fulfil this purpose or end up being just a mere instrument to save companies costs, this will depend largely on the content of competitiveness agreements which are including these practices.