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Description
The Study/White Paper “Dignified Domestic Service” has as objectives: O1. In-depth knowledge of the current reality of domestic workers’ economic activity and employment; O2. Ensure the existence of a legal framework for labor legislation adapted and adequate to the reality of domestic work; O3. Facilitate access to social protection, ensuring the implementation of the legal framework, eliminating existing barriers and; O4. Inform, train, mobilize and organize workers and social partners to defend their rights and promote decent work.
Summary of project results
The project "Serviço Doméstico Digno" aimed to address the lack of reliable information about working conditions in domestic work, the inadequate application of relevant labor laws, and the need to ensure dignified working and living conditions for domestic workers—most of whom are women and often immigrants. It sought to deepen the understanding of the current reality of this sector, propose improvements to the legal framework, and empower workers through information, training, and organization to better defend their rights.
The "Serviço Doméstico Digno" project carried out a comprehensive diagnosis of employment and economic activity in the domestic work sector in Portugal, including literature reviews, statistical data analysis, surveys, interviews, and focus groups. It developed a study on the legal framework for domestic work, comparing it to international practices and proposing recommendations aligned with ILO Convention No. 189. Comparative analyses were conducted to evaluate sector informality, challenges in implementing current legislation, and the impacts of COVID-19 measures. The project also addressed social protection and formalization through an in-depth study, proposing measures to strengthen these areas. Additionally, a study on union action for domestic workers was conducted, including a study visit to Norway and the development of recommendations to enhance union engagement. Workshops were held in Lisbon and Porto to validate findings, and the project concluded with the publication of the White Paper “Trabalho Doméstico Digno”, offering comprehensive insights and actionable recommendations for the sector.
The project achieved its primary objective through the development of its final output, the Estudo/Livro Branco. This comprehensive document provides an integrated perspective on the policies and measures needed to adapt the Portuguese legal framework and public policies to the realities of paid domestic work. It aims to improve the social and labor protection of domestic workers, foster their organization and mobilization, and address the economic and social inequalities associated with this profession. Beneficiaries include domestic workers—primarily women—who often face undervaluation and precarious conditions, as well as policymakers, organizations, and unions seeking to promote dignity and equality in this sector.
Summary of bilateral results
The project contributed to its objective through a partnership with the Norwegian Union for General Workers, which facilitated the exchange of experiences and knowledge between the two unions. This collaboration included a study visit to Norway, where insights into best practices and strategies were shared, and the active participation of Norwegian partners in the project''s Final Conference in Portugal.