Global Wage Inequality: A Comparative Look at Angola, the USA, Portugal...

Global Wage Inequality: A Comparative Look at Angola, the United States, Portugal, France and the United Kingdom

Wage inequality is a global phenomenon that affects millions of people, and varies significantly from country to country. In this article, we will explore the wage gaps between Angola, the United States, Portugal, France and the United Kingdom, providing a comparative perspective on how different nations deal with this challenge.

Angola
As mentioned, the average monthly wage in Angola is around 60,000 Kwanzas, equivalent to about 250 US dollars. This figure is quite modest when compared to international standards, reflecting the economic hardships and development challenges that the country faces. Furthermore, the discrepancy between wages in urban and rural areas further widens the gap, with many Angolans in less developed regions earning significantly less than the average wage.

United States
In the United States, the situation is drastically different. The average monthly wage is around $3,714, but this number masks the vast inequalities that exist. For example, the income gap between the top 1% and the bottom 99% is one of the highest in the world. Racial and gender disparities are also significant, with women and minorities often earning less than their white and male counterparts.

Portugal
In Portugal, the average monthly wage is around €1,100. Despite being one of the lowest-paid countries in Western Europe, Portugal has a more equitable income distribution compared to the US. The wage gap between the top and bottom of the pyramid is less pronounced, but challenges remain, such as high youth unemployment and job insecurity, especially after the European financial crisis.

France
France, with an average monthly wage of around €2,157, faces its own inequality issues. Frequent strikes and protests, such as the “yellow vest” movement, highlight public dissatisfaction with the unequal distribution of wealth. Despite a robust social security system, many French people still struggle with stagnant wages and rising living costs.

England
In England, the average monthly wage is around £2,800. However, London skews these figures due to the exceptionally high wages in the capital. Regional inequalities are prominent, with the north of England and other areas outside London often experiencing lower economic growth and reduced opportunities.

Conclusion
The comparative analysis reveals that while each country presents unique challenges in relation to wage inequality, the problem is universal. The notable differences between Angola and more developed countries such as the USA, Portugal, France and England demonstrate the wide range of economic and social contexts in which this inequality manifests itself. The fight for a more equitable distribution of wages remains a crucial objective for governments and societies around the world.