It’s time to give domestic workers the dignity they’ve earned

Fifteen years ago, on a sunny June day in Geneva, domestic workers worldwide gained crucial recognition with the adoption of the Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 (No. 189), by the International Labour Conference. This landmark decision established domestic work as a profession on par with any other, entitling domestic workers to the same rights, protections, and dignity.

Domestic workers are indispensable to the functioning of families, societies, and economies. They perform essential tasks such as cleaning, cooking, childcare, and elder care, enabling millions of others to participate in the workforce and community life. Despite their vital contributions, they remain one of the most undervalued and under-protected groups, with the majority being women often working in informal arrangements lacking labor rights, social protection, and safe conditions.

Since the convention's adoption, progress has been made, with a significant increase in the number of domestic workers covered by labor laws. More countries have extended legal protections, improved working conditions, and strengthened enforcement institutions. However, this progress is not universal. Millions continue to endure long working hours, meager wages, unsafe environments, and exclusion from social security systems, leaving them vulnerable to injury, illness, and poverty in old age.

Migrant domestic workers face compounded challenges, including restrictive policies, recruitment costs, language barriers, and dependence on employers. The demand for domestic and care services is rapidly increasing due to demographic shifts and women's labor force participation. Simultaneously, digital transformation, climate change, and global conflicts are reshaping labor markets, creating new vulnerabilities. Without decisive action, over 75 million domestic workers globally risk facing deteriorating conditions, increased exploitation, and a higher risk of child and forced labor.

Nepal has made strides in recognizing domestic workers, with its Labour Act, Civil Code, and local government initiatives providing some protections. Recent coverage of informal workers in social security also offers a foundation for further progress.