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In today’s competitive job market, internships have become a critical stepping stone for students and young professionals. However, the debate over whether internships should be paid remains a contentious issue. Paid internships ignite debate due to some employers arguing they are unable to pay, while others believe the experience alone is valuable.
Unpaid internships perpetuate inequality. Not everyone can afford to work for free, and unpaid internships often exclude those from lower-income backgrounds who cannot afford to forgo a paycheck. This creates a barrier to entry for many talented individuals who might otherwise excel in these roles. This is one important reason why all internships should be paid, as doing so would promote a more inclusive and diverse workforce, allowing individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds to gain valuable experience and contribute their unique perspectives.
Paying interns is a matter of fairness and respect. While the experience one gains while working an internship mightbe valuable, it is not enough to live on. Interns often perform tasks that are essential to the functioning of an organization. They contribute their time, effort, and skills, and it is only fair that they are compensated for their work. Unpaid internships can exploit young professionals, taking advantage of their eagerness to gain experience without providing them with the financial support they deserve. Paying interns acknowledges their contributions and respects their efforts, fostering a more positive and productive work environment.
Paid internships lead to better outcomes for both the intern and the employer. When interns are compensated, they are more likely to be motivated, engaged, and committed to their roles. This results in higher-quality work and a more meaningful learning experience. Employers also benefit from this arrangement, as they can attract a wider pool of candidates and ensure that their interns are fully invested in their roles. Paid internships create a win-win situation, where both parties can thrive and grow.
Those who oppose paid internships might argue that it is too costly or that the experience alone is enough payment. In her article about a paper that examined unpaid internships and its relation to labor law, Maddie Solomon writes, “…people do not see unpaid internships as incongruent with the work of social justice in the same way that people then did not see limiting women’s right to work as incongruent with the mission of civil rights.” To say that experience alone is enough for an intern today is akin to saying that the purpose of limiting women’s access to jobs in the past was because they were not seen as being on the same level. Limiting women’s rights to work in the past was seen as incompatible with civil rights and the unpaid internships of today are as well.
Additionally, unpaid internships often perpetuate economic inequality by excluding those who cannot afford to work for free. Paying interns acknowledges their contributions and ensures equitable access to opportunities, aligning with the core values of fairness and justice in society. Making all internships paid is not just a matter of fairness, but also a strategic move to foster a more inclusive, respectful, and productive workforce. By compensating interns for their valuable contributions – even in varied ways such as monetary compensation, certifications, or a job pathway – we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to gain experience and succeed, regardless of their financial background.