[NEW POLICY PAPER!] Policy Inclusion is Non-negotiable: Evaluating the Implementation of ILO C189 and C190 for Women Migrant Domestic Workers Rights

READ AND DOWNLOAD THE PAPER HERE.

ILO Convention 189 on Decent Work for Domestic Workers and Convention 190 on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work both aim to strengthen protections for domestic workers, including women migrant domestic workers. Advocates and migrant rights organisations are actively campaigning for the ratification of these conventions worldwide. However, ratification remains a challenge in several countries. 

Destinations such as Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia, which host some of the largest numbers of migrant domestic workers in Asia Pacific, have not yet ratified the conventions. Given this situation, this policy paper examined the implications of non-ratification of C189 and C190 in these destinations and how it affected women migrant domestic workers. Findings revealed that mainstream labor policies excluded migrant domestic workers. This exclusion leads to policies that institutionalize unequal treatment such as wages below minimum standard, working beyond the working hours, and limited privacy due to live-in arrangements. Moreover, cultural perceptions about domestic work, and discrimination against women migrant domestic workers further reinforce patterns of abuse and exploitation. 

In line with the commemoration of Women’s Month this March, this paper strongly advocates for the ratification of C189 and C190 and steadfastly calls for the protection of the rights and welfare of women migrant domestic workers. Lastly, confront the system that perpetuates their exploitation.