Exploring decent work among domestic workers in South Africa: A qualitative perspective

Abstract

Orientation: Experiences of decent working conditions for domestic workers within the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) decent work standards. Research purpose: Explore how domestic workers in South Africa experience decent work and address gaps in knowledge concerning decent work in the informal labour sector. Motivation for the study: To amplify the voices of domestic workers, highlight their lived experiences and examine the extent to which the principles of decent work are experienced according to the ILO. By shedding light on both challenges and positive practices within domestic work, the study contributes to broader efforts to promote social justice, labour rights, and inclusive employment standards in South Africa. Research approach/design and method: A qualitative, phenomenological thematic analysis was used to explore domestic workers’ lived experiences of decent work, using semi-structured, open-ended interviews with 11 participants. Main findings: Five central themes were explored (adequate compensation, healthcare, leave and rest days, aligning values and a safe work environment), and most participants of this study attained decent working conditions. Practical/managerial implications: Most domestic workers experience conditions aligned with decent work (fair remuneration, healthcare, rest and leave, value alignment, and safety). These should be maintained by employers through fair conditions and dignified treatment, with policymakers strengthening protection through labour standards and social support. Contribution/value-add: The study contributes to new knowledge on the experiences of decent work among a marginalised group of South African domestic workers.