A few years ago, the OECD warned of the widespread rise in income inequality in most OECD member countries, highlighting among other things its adverse effects on social cohesion, political stability and long-term economic growth. Brexit and the election of Donald Trump in the United States are the most prominent examples of the dynamics at play. What is the situation in Canada? Is the polarization of income and employment a problem? Is the gap between the better-off and the worse-off continuing to widen? What is the role of transfer programs and taxes, education and unionization? Income Inequality: The Canadian Story, co-edited by David Green, Craig Riddell, and France St-Hilaire, provides a comprehensive overview of the trends and factors that have contributed to this situation in recent decades and suggests possible solutions for the future.
France St-Hilaire, IRPP's Vice President of Research, spoke on the evolution of income inequality and the role of public policy in Canada.
