Global standards like ILO Convention 189 and ILO Convention 190 set a clear benchmark for safeguarding domestic workers, including women migrant domestic workers. Advocacy efforts continue to push for their adoption worldwide.

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.

Find the full article on the APMM website.