Domestic workers’ rights deserve more attention. A clear framework is needed to guarantee protection
A draft Domestic Worker Protection Act and Domestic Worker Protection and Welfare Policy are still in abeyance even after a High Court ruling in July asked the government to explain why it should not be directed to implement effective policies to protect domestic workers’ rights.
The drafts contain common sense directives on working hours, stopping the employment of child workers, providing entitlements to leave, pay, training, and medical care, and protecting domestic workers from physical, mental, and sexual harassment.
It is deeply concerning that there is still no clear indication on their implementation.
The need for protecting domestic workers’ rights is obvious. There are over 2 million domestic workers in Bangladesh. Despite continuing incidents of abuse, torture, and even murder, their rights still fail to get the attention they deserve.
Moreover, a significant proportion of domestic workers remain underage. Shockingly, one study of 849 domestic child workers in well-to-do parts of Dhaka last year found that 83% had suffered physical abuse from their employers and 17% have been sexually abused. Even if the figures in this study were atypical, it indicates a clear need for changes in public attitudes towards domestic workers.
The best way to bring this about is for the government to implement and enforce clear laws to protect people in domestic service.
Employers and employees alike will benefit from a clear framework that guarantees minimum rights and protection for domestic workers.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
