EFP introduces code of conduct on domestic workers’ rights

KARACHI:

The Employers’ Federation of Pakistan (EFP) launched a code of conduct for employers of domestic workers during a tripartite meeting, represented by more than 100 representatives of employers, workers’ federations, civil societies and officials from the labor department, as well as International Organization of Labor (ILO).

The code of conduct consists of various critical aspects including implementation of minimum wage for employees, ensuring working hours, adherence to health and safety norms among other initiatives.

Speaking at the launch ceremony held at a private hotel, Sindh Ministry of Labor and Human Resource Development, Shariq Ahmed said the code of conduct will help promote decent working conditions and protect the rights of domestic workers. He stressed that the initiative will help domestic workers, who represent a large part of the informal economy and are deprived of their fundamental rights. She noted that these domestic workers face many challenges such as low wages, poor working conditions, harassment and various forms of abuse. She appreciated the efforts and commitments of EFP to promote decent work for all and said that the code will provide the basis for legislation on domestic workers in Sindh, according to a press release.

EFP Secretary General Syed Nazar Ali highlighted the main features of the code of conduct, which was developed with the support of the International Labor Organization (ILO) and in consultation with all stakeholders, to promote decent working conditions for domestic workers. The code serves as a voluntary tool and offers guidance to employers of domestic workers on terms of employment to uphold fair practices and foster positive working relationships.

Reading Moot seeks better laws for domestic workers

ILO Pakistan Office Director Geir Tonstol emphasized that the implementation of Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work and other ILO Conventions such as Convention 189 will pave the way for the promotion of decent work for domestic workers. It identified national laws on domestic workers, highlighting the relationship between the laws and their implementation. Tonstol hoped that this code of conduct would serve as a guideline to initiate discussions and lead to the formulation of a law for domestic workers in Sindh. He reiterated the ILO’s technical support to its tripartite members to promote decent work for all in Pakistan, including domestic workers.

EFP Vice President Feroz Alam highlighted the efforts of the organization and reiterated the vital role of domestic workers in our lives, taking care of our children and managing household responsibilities. He stressed the importance of respecting domestic workers and ensuring favorable working conditions, especially considering their importance as a source of employment, especially for those with limited education, especially women. He supported the regulation of their employment and working conditions, arguing that the implementation of a code of conduct would promote behavioral changes and recognition of domestic workers.

Pakistan Workers Federation General Secretary Waqar Memon echoed similar sentiments, viewing the initiative as a positive step towards recognizing and securing the rights of domestic workers. He underlined the need for laws to protect the rights of domestic workers in Sindh, stressing the importance of legal frameworks to ensure their fair treatment and welfare.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 27^u2024.

Like Businesses on Facebook, follow @TribuneBiz on Twitter to stay updated and join the conversation.