You are here: Home / Campaigns / IDWF New Online Communication Network
IDWF New Online Communication Network

IDWF New Online Communication Network

Comments
by IDWFED published Dec 15, 2014 09:48 PM
The International Domestic Workers Federation (IDWF) in partnership with the International Labour Organization is excited to launch its communication network for domestic workers around the globe to connect with one another online.

      

Domestic Workers of the World Unite!


Yogyakarta, Indonesia, December 16
-

The International Domestic Workers Federation (IDWF) in partnership with the International Labour Organization is excited to launch its communication network for domestic workers around the globe to connect with one another online. This network, the first of its kind  serving to unite 52 million domestic workers around the globe, has been initiated with the support of the ILO and the Olof Palme Centre.

The Launch takes place on the occasion of the ILO “Trade Union Regional Workshop on Capacity Building of Domestic Workers Organizations and Elimination of Child Domestic Labour” attended by over 30 leaders of trade unions, domestic workers organizations in Asia and the ILO Asia Pacific and Jakarta office.

Domestic workers around the world participated in the creation of the network through ILO-sponsored regional workshops in Chile, Burkina Faso, and Hong Kong. The workshops gave domestic workers a platform to collaborate and set goals and expectations for the network.  

Through the communication network (www.IDWFed.org) registered members can:

  • Talk with other domestic workers and affiliate organizations in online discussions;
  • Post news and updates to share with the community;
  • Access educational materials such as reports and research on domestic work;
  • Share campaign strategies and  materials;
  • Find photos and videos of IDWF events;
  • Receive newsletters and updates on the latest IDWF activities;
  • Find and join an activity in their area or share their own on the calendar.

In countries around the world, domestic workers are often treated differently than other types of workers. Because their work is unregulated, domestic workers are more likely to suffer physical, emotional, and economic abuse. They often receive less than minimum wage and can face discrimination and even violence. Migrant workers and child workers are especially at risk.

“The network is a tool for this marginalized community to find strength in numbers and share best practices and information despite geographic borders,”

according to Elizabeth Tang, General Secretary of the IDWF.  

The network can be accessed via personal computer, tablet, and mobile and is available in English, Spanish and French, with translation available.

“Online communication is key for domestic workers, who often work in isolation. It’s especially important if they have migrated and work and live outside their own country – to stay in touch with family and friends, gain vital knowledge to protect and develop themselves, and get to know others and organize to promote decent work for domestic workers”,

says Peter van Rooij, Director of ILO Jakarta.

ABOUT:

The International Domestic Workers Federation is a global organization led by and for domestic workers to increase collaboration among domestic workers groups and unite to fight for their rights everywhere. IDWF conducts educational training and awareness workshops, commissions studies, and publishes reports. IDWF is membership-based with 47 affiliates in 44 countries. Members seek recognition of their rights and ask all governments to ratify C189 on decent work for domestic workers.

CONTACT:

MORE INFORMATION:

blog comments powered by Disqus