Advocacy for Ratification of ILO Conventions 189 and 190
For decades, the WARBE Development Foundation has fought for the rights of migrant workers, with a strong focus on women. These women, many working as domestic workers abroad, often face abuse, long hours, and low wages, with little protection. WARBE is pushing for change by advocating for the ratification of two critical ILO conventions.
ILO Convention 189 – Decent Work for Domestic Workers
C189 would formally recognize domestic work as decent labor, ensuring fair contracts, regular payments, and rest periods. It would also encourage countries to improve legal protections for migrant domestic workers and promote ethical recruitment practices. For many Bangladeshi women working abroad, this recognition is crucial for their safety and dignity.
ILO Convention 190 – Elimination of Violence and Harassment in the World of Work
C190 addresses violence and harassment in the workplace, especially for migrant women in domestic settings, where abuse is often unreported. Ratifying this convention would provide a legal framework to protect workers from all forms of violence and harassment, creating safer work environments and supporting survivors.
“These conventions aren’t optional—they’re essential for protecting the dignity and rights of our workers.” — Syed Saiful Haque, Chairman, WARBE Development Foundation
These efforts are rooted in WARBE’s long-standing commitment to protecting the rights of migrant and domestic workers, particularly women, who often face exploitative and unsafe working conditions.
Our Approach
- Policy Advocacy and Public Statements: Consistently raising the demand for ratification in national forums, public campaigns, and events.
- Inclusion in Campaign Agendas: Highlighting the importance of these conventions as part of a broader push for rights-based migration governance.
- Consultative Processes: Facilitating discussions at grassroots and national levels to gather feedback from returnee migrants and stakeholders, submitting recommendations to authorities.
- Collaboration: Working in coordination with other rights-based organizations to amplify the demand for ratification.
While these conventions are not yet ratified, WARBE has played an instrumental role in keeping the conversation active, particularly regarding the protection of women migrant workers in informal and domestic sectors.