📈 ILO Calls for Decent Work for Sri Lanka’s 189,000 Domestic Workers

A formalised domestic work sector is critical to improving Sri Lanka's low women's labour force participation by alleviating unpaid care duties, according to the ILO. • Overall Figures: Sri Lanka has approximately 189,000 domestic workers (based on 2024 Labour Force Survey data). The sector is growing rapidly due to an ageing population and high migration rates. • Gender Breakdown: Women make up nearly 43% of the domestic workforce. Among them, 87% work as cleaners, helpers, and direct caregivers, compared to just 9% of men. • Key Challenges: The sector remains highly informal. Most employees work without written contracts, regulated hours, paid leave, or social security, exposing them to financial insecurity and workplace injuries. • Progress & Gaps: While Sri Lanka has not yet ratified the ILO Domestic Workers Convention (No. 189), key initiatives are underway to bridge the gap: - Introduction of a standard employment contract to formalise terms. - Launch of a Complaint Management Application (CMA) to protect migrant domestic workers from exploitation and abuse.