Opinion | Editorials

Unsung heroes get their dues

New contract will set down exactly what rights domestic workers are entitled to.

  • Gulf News
  • Published: 23:37 May 3, 2009
  • Gulf News

Domestic workers are the unsung heroes of the economy. In many cases both parents have to work and leave the domestic helpers to literally man the home front.

A new contract will be enforced from next month that will stipulate the rights and duties of domestic workers. While the vast majority of employers treat their domestic workers well, there have been some horrific instances of abuse in which unscrupulous employers have badly abused them.

This new contract sets down exactly what rights the domestic workers are entitled to and makes the whole employer/employee relationship more transparent.

Issues regarding holidays, pay and termination of contract will be dealt with, but perhaps the most important aspect will be the peace of mind it gives both parties.

If there is any dispute the new contract should provide a framework to help resolve disagreements or clarify situations.

Gulf News

Opinion Editor's choice
  • Russia, China complicit
    Russia, China complicit in Syria carnage
    By Fawaz Turki, Special to Gulf News

    By their double veto at the UN, they have chosen to back the Al Assad regime that is already wet spaghetti

  • Manmohan Singh and Yousuf Raza Gilani
    Two prime ministers in trouble
    By Kuldip Nayar, Special to Gulf News

    Gilani faces contempt of court charge while Singh encounters moral responsibility in 2G scam case

  • Russia's Prime Minister Vladimir Putin
    Moving towards honest democracy
    By Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister of Russia

    Russia needs to unbundle power and property and separate executive power from system of checks over it

Most people still consider spousal abuse as a private family matter and avoid getting involved.
What do you think?

Speak Your Mind

Is violence within a marriage a private matter?