Kerala Labour Movement Calls for Stronger Protection of Domestic Workers’ Rights

Kochi, June 17: The Kerala Labour Movement (KLM) has called for comprehensive legal measures to safeguard the rights, dignity and safety of domestic workers, urging the government to enact legislation implementing the International Labour Organization’s Convention No. 189 on decent work for domestic workers.

The demand was raised at a Domestic Workers’ Conference organised by the Kerala Labour Movement under the leadership of the Kerala Domestic Workers Forum at the P.O.C. Centre, Ernakulam, on June 16 as part of the observance of International Domestic Workers’ Day.

Inaugurating the conference, MLA Uma Thomas highlighted the invaluable contribution of domestic workers to families and society and stressed the need for stronger legal protection and welfare measures for the sector. Participants echoed the call for greater recognition of domestic workers’ rights and emphasized the importance of ensuring fair treatment, social security and dignified working conditions.

Adv. Anjali Cyrus, State President of the Kerala Domestic Workers Forum, presided over the programme. Speakers at the gathering underlined the continuing challenges faced by domestic workers and reaffirmed the need to secure their rights through effective legislation and policy interventions.

Among those who addressed the conference were Jose Mathew Ookkan, State President of KLM; Fr. Arun Valiyathazhath, State Director of KLM; Fr. Thomas Tharayil, Deputy Secretary General of the KCBC; Joseph Jude, State Chairman of UTA; Dixon Maneek, KLM State General Secretary; Adv. Thomas Mathew, State Treasurer; Babu Thannikkottu, UTA Convenor; Betsy Blaise, State President of the Vanitha Forum; Rosamma, State Secretary of the Vanitha Forum; and Sr. Leena C., KLM State Coordinator.

A seminar held as part of the celebrations focused on the theme, “Relevance of Domestic Workers, Challenges and Possibilities.” Dr. Kochurani Joseph delivered the keynote address and led a session examining the indispensable role played by domestic workers, the challenges they encounter in their profession, and the opportunities for improving their working conditions, social security and public recognition.

The conference concluded with the election of the state office-bearers of the Kerala Domestic Workers Forum, reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to advocating for the welfare, dignity and rights of domestic workers across Kerala.

By Catholic Connect Reporter