This timely and well-written collection explores the impact of economic reforms in developing and transitional economies across the world. In a first of its kind, this book examines such issues as:* in-depth, cross-regional analysis of the pressures for global integration* labour costs and their determinants: crucial factors in the success of economic strategies in attracting investment* how wage levels, poverty and the important role of workers as part of a civil society are linked with the consequences of global integration.This important book is essential reading for all those involved in labour and development economics as well as being of great interest to policy makers.