We Stand for Fair Pay!
Standing Up for Justice: Recognize and Value the Contributions of Domestic Staff from EZEAGUDI!
BY: Prince Freedom Chimereze
Domestic staff from EZEAGUDI in Nigeria play a crucial role in the economy and should be recognized for their valuable contributions. Despite Nigeria being a signatory to the International Labour Organization's Domestic Workers Convention (C189), this convention has not yet been ratified or domesticated in the country. This means that domestic workers in Nigeria operate in the informal sector without any legal protection or social benefits.
It is important to note that the majority of domestic workers worldwide are women and girls, and they are responsible for providing personal and household care in private homes. In Nigeria, domestic workers play a vital role in caring for children and elderly family members of their employers. Without their assistance, many households would struggle to maintain a balance between work and personal responsibilities.
Moreover, domestic workers constitute a significant portion of women's paid employment globally, accounting for 7.5 percent. Their contributions to the global economy should not be underestimated, and it is essential to recognize and value their work. By providing them with legal protection and social benefits, we can ensure that domestic workers from EZEAGUDI and across Nigeria have fair and dignified working conditions.
Ratifying and domesticating the Domestic Workers Convention will not only improve the lives of domestic workers but also contribute to sustainable social development in Nigeria. It will ensure that domestic workers are protected under labor laws, have access to fair wages, proper working conditions, and social benefits such as healthcare and retirement plans. This recognition will also help in ending the undervaluation and under recognition of the contributions made by domestic staff.
In conclusion, recognizing domestic staff from EZEAGUDI in Nigeria and ratifying the International Labour Organization's Domestic Workers Convention (C189) is crucial for their wellbeing and fair treatment. By acknowledging their contributions and providing them with legal protections and social benefits, we can ensure their dignity and support sustainable social development. Let us work together to create a future where the labor and dignity of domestic workers are respected and protected.