Convention on Domestic Workers (ILO C189)

Key provisions

• Equal treatment with other workers in respect of basic terms and conditions of employment, including minimum wage where applicable.
• Clear information on terms and conditions of employment, ideally in a written contract.
• Limits on working hours, entitlement to daily and weekly rest periods, and paid annual leave.
• Protection against abuse, harassment and violence, and measures to ensure the safety and occupational health of domestic workers.
• Access to social security, maternity protection and remedies for unlawful dismissal.
• Freedom of association and protection of the right to organize and bargain collectively.

History and adoption

The Convention was adopted by the International Labour Organization during its 100th session on 16 June 2011 as Convention No. 189. It was accompanied by Recommendation No. 201, which offers additional guidance on implementing the Convention’s principles. The treaty entered into force on 5 September 2013 after the requisite number of ratifications was deposited. Additional information about the instrument and related materials can be found via official ILO resources: 100th ILO session and the convention page at the ILO: Convention on Domestic Workers.

Implementation, impact and challenges

In countries that have ratified the convention, legal reforms have often extended labour protections to household workers, improved inspection and complaint mechanisms, and promoted social protection coverage. Implementation remains difficult in many contexts because domestic work is frequently informal, takes place in private homes where labour inspection is complex, and disproportionately involves women and migrant workers who can be vulnerable to exploitation. National measures vary in scope and effectiveness, and advocacy by worker organizations, NGOs and governments continues to be important to translate the Convention’s standards into practice.

Significance and notable facts

The Convention is the first international treaty to focus specifically on domestic workers, raising the visibility of this sector and establishing an international benchmark for decent work in private households. Its provisions emphasize that the domestic setting does not justify denial of basic labour rights. Where implemented, the Convention helps to clarify employer obligations, strengthen legal remedies for abuse, and integrate domestic workers into labour and social protection systems.