The Decent Work for Domestic Workers Convention and Recommendation, 2011

Abstract

This short article offers an overview and appraisal of the new convention and recommendation. First, it situates them in historical and regulatory context. Second, it discusses the substantive approach taken in these two documents to regulating decent work for domestic workers. It emphasizes the particular character of the claim to equality that pervades the treaty; its conception of equality has implications for labor rights, including current conceptions of migrant workers’ rights. Third, the article explores the potential implications of the treaty-making process employed, with particular emphasis on the role of social movements in bringing inclusive, democratic participation into the construction of international labor law.