“12 BY 12” Conference dedicated to domestic work
On 12th of December 2012 there was held a conference in Lisbon dedicated to domestic work issues hold by UGT (Workers General Union). The conference was a part of a worldwide campaign in favour of the ratification of the ILO (International Labour Organisation) convention nr. 189 that is first to recognize domestic work as work and gives rules for dignified conditions of work in this branch.
At the time being the convention has been ratified by 6 countries (Uruguay, Philippines, Mauritius, Nicaragua, Bolivia, and Paraguay). None of the EU member states has yet ratified the convention. Brasil is preparing for its ratification; nevertheless there are some constitutional changes to be made. The worldwide campaign 12-BY-12 aims to mobilise support for the Convention in 84 countries and will continue in 2013 with the effort to push forward the ratification in the particular countries.
In the morning part of the schedule delegates of the UGT and ILO have spoken. For UGT has spoken - among others - Dr. Aida Morais from the law department who has been analysing the current legislative concerning the domestic work in Portugal in her paper. She introduced the legislative changes needed in case that Portugal would decide to ratify the convention.
In the afternoon there was scheduled a happening called “Release of the Baloon”. The balloon carried with the sign of 12-BY-12. Last but not least there was a meeting with deputies of the parliamentary parties, who were given a letter requesting ratification of the convention.
For further information about the campaign have a look at: http://www.ituc-csi.org/12-by-12-campaign-six-countries.html?lang=en
