Our Message to the Public, Employers, and Government: Advocating for the Rights and Dignity of Overseas Domestic Workers 5/5
- thevoiceofdomesticworkers
- Mar 27
- 3 min read
The Fight for Recognition: Domestic Work as Real Work
Happy International Women’s Day! Today, as we celebrate the incredible strength and resilience of women worldwide, let us not forget those whose labor is often unseen and unrecognized: migrant domestic workers.
In many parts of the world, domestic work is not considered “real work.” This lack of recognition allows for the exploitation and mistreatment of those who care for households, provide caregiving, and perform tasks that keep families and societies functioning smoothly. It is high time that we change this narrative.
The Urgent Need for Change
As Mercy so powerfully shared, there is an urgent need for governments to enforce protective laws for domestic workers. This includes ensuring decent working hours, minimum wages, access to social protection, and most importantly, the ratification of ILO Convention C189. The convention, which provides international standards for the protection of domestic workers, is a crucial step in the fight for justice. Unfortunately, it’s been far too long since many countries have acted on this.
Mercy also highlighted a crucial point: domestic workers deserve respect and protection. “We are workers, not slaves,” she said. “We are multi-skilled—cleaners, caregivers, nannies, and more. We deserve to be recognized for our contributions.” This is not a call for privilege, but for basic human rights—rights that any worker in any field should have. Domestic workers should have access to paid leave, sick days, overtime payments, and the dignity of fair treatment in the workplace.
A Call for Fairness and Dignity
Employers must also step up. Fair wages, clear contracts, respect for work-life balance, and adherence to labor laws are essential for creating a more just society. As Grace shared, the louder we speak, the more we can make our voices heard. Every story matters, and every voice is powerful.
To the employers out there: remember that domestic workers are an integral part of your lives, and their work is as real as any other. Respect them as individuals, not as commodities. A fair contract, proper pay, and recognition of their worth are fundamental to a harmonious working relationship.
The Role of the Public in Creating Change
The public, too, plays a crucial role. Supporting campaigns that aim to protect domestic workers, ensuring that their voices are heard, and raising awareness about the challenges they face can create real change.
Today, as we celebrate women, let’s celebrate not just their resilience, but also their power to transform communities and societies. We, the women of the world, are not invisible. We are strong, we are capable, and we deserve the same respect and recognition as any worker.
Together, We Move Forward
Together, we are moving forward. Let us continue to advocate for the rights of domestic workers, amplify their voices, and work for a future where their labor is acknowledged, respected, and protected. Domestic work is real work, and it deserves to be recognized as such.
Happy International Women’s Day to all the incredible women around the world! Your strength and courage inspire us all.
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