International Domestic Workers Federation

Definition

The International Domestic Workers Federation (IDWF) is a global organization that represents and advocates for the rights of domestic workers across various countries. Formed in 2013, the IDWF aims to empower domestic workers by promoting labor rights, social justice, and gender equality in a sector that is often marginalized and lacks formal protections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The IDWF was established in response to the growing recognition of the need for advocacy and representation for domestic workers worldwide, who often face exploitation and abuse.
2. The organization plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the rights of domestic workers and pushing for legislation that provides legal protections in various countries.
3. IDWF focuses on building solidarity among domestic workers from different regions to strengthen their collective voice and bargaining power.
4. The federation works closely with international bodies, such as the International Labour Organization (ILO), to promote the adoption of standards that protect domestic workers' rights.
5. The IDWF organizes training programs and resources to help domestic workers understand their rights and empower them to advocate for themselves and their colleagues.

Review Questions

• How does the International Domestic Workers Federation empower domestic workers globally?
  • The International Domestic Workers Federation empowers domestic workers by providing them with resources and training to understand their rights. By building solidarity among workers from different countries, it strengthens their collective bargaining power and voice. Additionally, the IDWF advocates for better labor laws and protections, ensuring that domestic workers receive fair treatment in their workplaces.
• Discuss the role of the International Domestic Workers Federation in advocating for labor rights within the context of transnational feminism.
  • The International Domestic Workers Federation plays a significant role in advocating for labor rights through a transnational feminist lens by addressing issues of gender inequality faced by predominantly female domestic workers. It highlights how these workers are often subjected to exploitation due to their marginalized status in both labor markets and society. By connecting with other feminist movements globally, the IDWF amplifies the voices of domestic workers and emphasizes the importance of gender equity in labor rights.
• Evaluate the impact of the International Domestic Workers Federation's initiatives on global labor standards for domestic work.
  • The initiatives of the International Domestic Workers Federation have had a considerable impact on global labor standards for domestic work by raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by domestic workers. Through advocacy efforts at international forums like the ILO, the IDWF has contributed to establishing standards that recognize domestic work as legitimate labor deserving of protection. This shift not only enhances the visibility of domestic work but also encourages countries to implement legal frameworks that safeguard the rights of these often-overlooked workers.

Related terms

Domestic Work: A form of employment where individuals perform household tasks such as cleaning, cooking, and caregiving, often within private homes.

Labor Rights: The legal rights and protections afforded to workers, which include fair wages, safe working conditions, and the right to organize.

Transnational Advocacy: Efforts by organizations or movements that span multiple countries to promote social or political change on global issues.