Mudassir Riaz
The responsibilities and scope of work of household workers are extensive, ranging from cleaning homes and cooking meals to caring for children and performing various other duties such as gardening and household maintenance. However, the status and treatment of these workers in society present a stark contrast to the significant contributions they make to households. In many upscale establishments, household workers are subjected to discriminatory treatment. For instance, they are often denied entry into certain premises, such as the main living areas of the house, and relegated to sit outside, sometimes in harsh weather conditions, as if being punished for their status.
This societal disparity was profoundly highlighted during a period when the demand for Filipino maids surged, turning them into coveted status symbols. The treatment of these household workers revealed deep-rooted prejudices and inequalities, with some upscale establishments displaying explicit signs that outlined the restrictions on these workers. The influx of Filipina maids, though sought after as status symbols, ultimately shed light on the widespread mistreatment and lack of recognition faced by household workers, especially women and young girls.
The invisibility of this section of society is staggering, with an estimated 8.5 million domestic workers in Pakistan, the majority of whom are women and young girls. Despite the challenges they face, these workers show remarkable resilience. Furthermore, in some cases, this occupation is passed down from mother to child, perpetuating a cycle of limited opportunities and education. Young girls accompanying their mothers to work not only face safety concerns but also forfeit formal education, contributing to the prevalence of uneducated populations in the country.
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Despite prolonged neglect and maltreatment, household workers lacked legal recognition until the enactment of laws aimed at safeguarding their rights. The passage of the Home-Based Workers Act in the Punjab Assembly in 2023 and the Islamabad Capital Territory Workers Act in 2021 marked a significant step toward protecting the rights of home-based workers. This legal recognition is crucial, but even with these legal advancements and the advocacy efforts of women’s organizations, household workers, particularly women, continue to face mistreatment and abuse by powerful segments of society.
Instances of sexual harassment, physical violence, and overall mistreatment by employers persist, creating a hostile and exploitative work environment for household workers. The most vulnerable are live-in household helpers, especially young girls, who are often isolated from their families and lack the means to report mistreatment until it’s too late. This dire situation is further exacerbated by the absence of a fixed minimum wage for household workers, leaving them in near-poverty conditions as they struggle to make ends meet.
Amid these challenges, certain pockets of positivity emerge, particularly within the community of drivers and chowkidars employed in upscale areas. In cities like Karachi, these workers have played pivotal roles by diligently serving their employers, caring for children, and safeguarding properties. The majority of these workers hail from the Northern areas of Pakistan, displaying unwavering dedication and honesty in their tasks, thus warranting acknowledgment and appreciation for their contributions.
The importance of the social behavior of a society towards domestic workers cannot be overstated in their quest for rights and uplift. Societal attitudes and behaviors directly impact the treatment and well-being of domestic workers, who play a crucial role in households. By fostering a culture of respect and fair treatment towards domestic workers, society can contribute to the recognition of their rights and dignity. This involves acknowledging the valuable contributions of domestic workers and advocating for fair wages, legal protection, and an end to discriminatory practices. Moreover, promoting compassion and empathy within society can help create a more inclusive and equitable environment for domestic workers, paving the way for their uplift and empowerment. By encouraging a shift in social behavior towards domestic workers, we can work towards building a more just and fair society for all its members.
In conclusion, the plight of household workers underscores the pressing need for societal reform. This reform should include fair wages, legal protection, and the eradication of discriminatory practices. Their substantial contributions to households and society at large warrant not only recognition but also dignified and equitable treatment as indispensable members of the workforce.
