An Overview of Domestic Work Phenomenon

One of the fastest growing informal vocations in the world is domestic work. It is usually performed by women from developing countries living in developed or developing countries. They work for the affluent and middle class career women and men. Domestic work raises a lot of controversial issues and concerns. While some argue that it is a deserving work that should be performed, others see it as a dirty work reserved for uneducated illiterates. By and large, the general consensus is that it is a form of employment hence the rights and dignities of those who engage in it should be protected under the labour law and the law of the land like other vocations and careers. This paper looks at the dynamics of domestic work and numerous interventions that have been put in place to accord it the dignity and right it deserves. It accentuates that in view of the fact that those who engage in it are vulnerable women and children, the protective mechanisms could only be meaningful and produce the expected results if they are closely implemented and monitored. DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n9p697