New Domestic Labour Law Aims to Protect Rights of Houseworkers

The Egyptian government is set to introduce a new Domestic Labour Law designed to safeguard the rights of nearly half a million domestic workers. This initiative, confirmed by the Ministry of Labour, aims to regularise the status of these workers, integrate them into the formal labour market, and provide training and professional certification.

The proposed law includes the establishment of professional licences for domestic workers and a skill assessment process at no cost. It sets a minimum working age of 15 and provides special protections for workers under 18, including regulated working hours and mandatory rest periods to ensure educational continuity.

The law also emphasises the importance of equitable treatment, prohibiting discrimination based on religion, gender, or other factors. Agencies involved in domestic labour must comply with the new regulations within 90 days of their enactment, ensuring that existing rights are preserved.

Additionally, the law proposes the creation of an online platform to connect job seekers with families seeking domestic help, along with a model employment contract outlining the rights and obligations of both parties.