unpaid labor

Unpaid labor refers to work performed without direct monetary compensation. It includes activities like caregiving, housework, volunteering, and community service—tasks that are essential for well-being and social functioning but often go unrecognized financially. While these efforts contribute significantly to families and society, they are not typically paid or recorded as formal employment. Recognizing unpaid labor helps highlight its value and importance in supporting economic stability and social cohesion, even though it lacks immediate financial remuneration.