Abstract

The paper examines the phenomenon of labour exploitation in the context of a general worsening of social inequalities, as demonstrated by the increasing exposure to the risk of poverty and social exclusion. The study adopts a specific concept of exploitation (drawn from Marxian theories), and describes the features of intensive exploitation, characterised by the interdependence of some factors that outline its specificity. The distinctive factors of intensive exploitation affect the mechanisms that contribute to reducing wages (work relationships and the application of collective labour agreements), but are related to a business model that is widely applied in the production chains, and represents a link in value chains. Finally, an analysis scheme was developed that summarises the strategies undertaken by unions to counter this phenomenon by leveraging inclusive bargaining at company and supply chain level. The intensive exploitation issue highlights the need to rethink the contractual model and distribution policies, starting from the centrality of the material condition of work.