Call to ensure rights of domestic workers

LAHORE: Laiba Mazhar, representative of Domestic Workers Union (DWU) Punjab, in a press statement said domestic workers in Punjab face significant challenges, particularly regarding poor working conditions characterised by unhygienic and unsafe environments.

Despite the passing of the Punjab Domestic Workers Act in 2019, which aims to regulate their employment and ensure their rights, many domestic workers continue to work under dire circumstances.

Ms Zareena form DWU Kasur shared that the large part of the approximately 8.5 million domestic workers in Pakistan, predominantly women, operates in informal settings without access to basic labour rights and protections. Many domestic workers report working in environments that lack proper sanitation and safety measures. For instance, scarce facilities can expose them to health risks, while the absence of safety protocols can lead to accidents and injuries on the job, she said.

President of Domestic Workers Union (DWU) Samina Farooq highlighted Punjab Domestic Workers Act was designed to address these issues by mandating decent working conditions, including occupational safety and health measures.

However, the implementation of these regulations has been slow, leaving many workers vulnerable. Efforts by Domestic Workers Union Punjab, she said. She further explained that the Domestic Workers Union (DWU) Punjab is actively engaged in raising awareness about these challenges and advocating for improved working conditions for domestic workers through the PRS Project.

This initiative aims to educate participants and promote the welfare of domestic workers in Punjab, she said. Union representatives stress the significance of collective action to demand fair treatment from employers. Furthermore, they are advocating for the creation of a Domestic Workers Registration Authority to enhance oversight and ensure the effective implementation of existing laws.