Abstract
This study dentifies a general trend towards the extension of equal protection to all workers regardless of the enterprise size, including those in the informal economy and in self-employment. To achieve that, governments are relying not only on labour laws but also on other frameworks and policies. This study did not find any country that completely excluded MSMEs from the application of labour laws. Whereselective exclusions or special regimes are in place, these apply mainly to micro and small enterprises, while workers in medium-sized enterprises are often fully covered. Invoking the concept of “social control”, this study highlights a number of innovative approaches used to achieve enforcement of, and compliance with, labour laws among MSMEs – ranging from targeted inspections to wider campaigns designed to raise awareness and change social norms and perceptions.