Research Summary Video: Does raising the minimum wage kill jobs? The case in Spain

This academic study explores the complex relationship between minimum wage hikes and unemployment rates in Spain from 2010 to 2023. Using data from the Spanish National Statistics Institute, the authors found an inverse correlation where rising base pay frequently aligned with lower joblessness, particularly among younger male workers. The research highlights Simpson's Paradox, noting that while aggregate figures show positive trends, disaggregated data reveals that results vary significantly based on specific industries and gender participation. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the critical role of geographical mobility, suggesting that older workers must often relocate between Autonomous Communities to find better employment prospects. Ultimately, the text argues against a "one-size-fits-all" view, concluding that economic growth and sector-specific dynamics heavily influence how wage policies impact the labor market.