Labour informality in forestry: A longitudinal (2009–2020) cross-country analysis of determinants in 70 developing countries

Informality represents a significant share of the forestry labour market, particularly in developing countries, where it provides an essential livelihood for millions of people. This study examines the macroeconomic determinants of forestry-related informality across 70 developing countries in Africa, the Americas, and Asia between 2009 and 2020. The results show that informality is significantly associated with economic recessions and deforestation, reflecting both labour-market exclusion and exit processes. The study highlights that improving education, promoting forest certification, reducing corruption, and strengthening labour rights and inspection can help reduce informality and improve employment conditions in the forestry sector.