National consultation seeks stronger rights for domestic workers

A national consultation in Dhaka, jointly organised by Oxfam in Bangladesh, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the Campaign for Popular Education (CAMPE), called for stronger recognition and protection of domestic workers' rights, urging collective action from government, civil society, and development partners.

In Dhaka, over 60 participants gathered for a consultation to discuss advancing reforms that will secure dignity, justice, and decent work for approximately 4 million domestic workers, the majority of whom are women and girls.

Addressing the event as Chief Guest, A.H.M. Shafiquzzaman, Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, said: "Domestic work must no longer remain invisible. It deserves formal recognition, proper monitoring, and stronger safeguards against abuse and exploitation. The Ministry is committed to working with partners to integrate domestic workers into labour laws and social protection schemes."

Deputy Secretary Mohammad Shamsul Islam highlighted government initiatives aimed at safeguarding rights and extending social protection. International partners also underscored the importance of collaboration. Stéphanie St-Laurent Brassard, Second Secretary (Development – Gender Equality), High Commission of Canada, noted: "Collaboration is at the heart of lasting change. When different actors come together, we can create pathways for domestic workers to access skills, recognition, and the dignity they deserve."

Speakers emphasized that, despite the Domestic Workers Protection and Welfare Policy 2015 and Bangladesh's endorsement of ILO Convention 189, challenges persist due to a lack of legal recognition, written contracts, fair wages, and access to social protection.

Shakil Akhter Chowdhury, Member of the Labour Reform Commission, said that 28 recommendations, including the inclusion of domestic workers in labour law, have been placed before the government. Neeran Ramjuthan, from the ILO Bangladesh, called for stronger enforcement and alignment with international standards, while Oxfam's Programme Director, Mahmuda Sultana, emphasised turning recognition into rights, announcing plans for an international conference to enhance global collaboration.

Moderating the session, CAMPE Executive Director Rasheda K. Choudhury stressed the need for a systematic database of domestic workers to guide effective policy.

Participants concluded with key recommendations aimed at formally recognizing domestic workers' contributions, establishing a national database, expanding training and job placement opportunities, and enhancing coordination among stakeholders, all of which are intended to strengthen protection and recognition for domestic workers.