Indonesia’s new domestic worker law sets global precedent for rights

Indonesia’s parliament passed landmark legislation last month classifying domestic workers as employees, granting an estimated 4 million people access to health insurance, paid days off and pensions. The law also prohibits hiring workers under 18. Activists say the move follows more than two decades of persistent campaigning.

The challenges facing domestic workers extend far beyond Indonesia. The International Domestic Workers Federation reports that roughly 75 million people work in the sector worldwide, experiencing “lower wages, fewer benefits and fewer legal or social protections than other workers.” Three-quarters of these workers are women, and their isolation in private homes often leaves them vulnerable to abuse and difficult to organize.

A growing number of domestic workers are migrants, including about 3 million Indonesians employed primarily in Asia and the Gulf. Those working abroad are “especially vulnerable,” advocates say. Exorbitant recruitment fees can trap them in debt bondage, and language barriers hamper access to help. One expert described the kafala sponsorship system in many Gulf states as giving a “veneer of legality to slaveholding.”

Only a few dozen countries have ratified the 15-year-old International Labour Organization convention that sets minimum standards for domestic workers. But the convention has catalyzed organizing and helped extend legislative coverage to more workers. Social media is also raising awareness and enabling coordination among physically isolated workers.

Campaigners have one advantage, activists note: they are not challenging large corporations the way other trade unions do. Indonesia’s new law allowed the government to advance workers’ rights without confronting powerful vested interests. But politicians are far more likely to employ domestic help than to work in other people’s homes. Activists say Indonesia’s example shows persistent lobbying of individual legislators and helping workers share their stories are critical.

Recognizing domestic workers as employees, outlawing excessive agency fees and guaranteeing rest days are essential steps. Destination countries need to provide shelters, clear channels to seek help and improve rights. Countries that export labor can do more to protect and support their nationals before and after migration.

While the interests of migrant and local workers are often seen as competing, advocacy can be complementary. Activists say pressure from South Korean employees concerned about undercutting of pay and conditions has helped improve policies for migrant workers, including a path to residency rights.

Even where laws are difficult to enforce, their existence can help change attitudes. Indonesia’s new legislation took longer than it should have and required compromises. Nonetheless, the law serves as an important reminder that domestic workers not only need protection but will fight for it despite the obstacles.