On the development of the system of wages statistics

Abstract

The author consistently reviewes the organization of the wages (earnings) statistics in Russia, disclosed a system of statistical indicators of wages, described its information and methodological support. The paper outlines the system of statistical indicators in this field, along with their methodology and information sources. The author focuses on specific sections of statistics on wages (earnings) that have been developed very recently primarily in order to monitor the execution of the Presidents' «May decrees» (for example, on those categories of employees whose wages are meant to be raised). The paper supports the introduction into statistical practice the indicator of average monthly wages for all employees (for organizations, individual entrepreneurs and individuals). Development of the new sample survey of the population in Russia - survey of population income and social programs participation - allowed for adding a new indicator of average hourly wages to the considered system of statistical indicators. The article also analyses procedures for the formation of the wage differentiation, average monthly wages by occupational characteristics, as well as wages of state and municipal employees. The author concludes, indicating that official statistical information on wages (earnings) developed by Rosstat and structured as a multidimensional system of statistical indicators has significant potential as a comprehensive study of wages (earnings) which is an essential labour marker indicator.