A national reality
117,000domestic workers estimated in Benin
RNTTD estimate · June 2026
Convention 189 in Benin
Recognized work. A relationship built on trust.
Domestic work keeps households running. Convention 189 provides clear guidance to protect workers, give employing families greater security and support public policy.
A collective campaign
Key figures
Domestic work in three figures.
An essential sector that remains largely informal.
Sector overview
98.4%of domestic employment is informal
ILO · TRADOM 2025
Women's employment
2.3%of women's employment is in domestic work
ILO · TRADOM 2025
In everyday life
Clarity can begin today.
Without waiting for the next national steps, workers and employers can already agree on simple terms to organize their working relationship.
01
Discuss tasks and working hours
Define what is expected and when the worker should be available.
02
Agree on pay
Set the amount, frequency and method of payment.
03
Plan rest time
Plan breaks, weekly rest and arrangements for emergencies.
Convention 189
Simple rules that help everyone.
Adopted by the ILO in 2011, the Convention provides a common foundation so that domestic workers can enjoy conditions as fair as those in other jobs.
2011adopted
2013in force
40ratifications
Clear working conditions
Tasks, working hours, pay and leave are clearly explained.
Time to rest
Working time is organized and weekly rest is protected.
Regular pay
Payment is direct, regular and made at least once a month.
Protection and dignity
Health, maternity and protection from abuse are recognized.
For workers
Clear rights, protected rest and more accessible remedies.
For employers
Clear responsibilities and a more stable working relationship.
For Benin
Greater formalization and stronger social policy.
A profession with a place in society
Recognize the work. Listen to the people.
Recognition is not achieved through legislation alone. It also begins with how society views the profession and listens to the people who perform it.
“Domestic work is a real profession. We deserve the same rights as everyone else.”
Dialogue in Benin
Strong foundations, with a next step to build.
Benin has not yet ratified Convention 189. Legal analysis and social dialogue have nevertheless begun with support from the ILO and the social partners.
- 1
Review
Review legislation and identify useful adjustments.
- 2
Engage in dialogue
Bring together public authorities, workers, employers and partners.
- 3
Define the next step
The official timetable will be published here as soon as it is available.
A collective campaign
Six organizations, one shared commitment.
The organizations behind the campaign.
COSI-Bénin
Confederation of Independent Trade Union Organizations of Benin
Defending workers' rights and interests.
CSA-Bénin
Confederation of Autonomous Trade Unions of Benin
Social dialogue and the promotion of decent work.
CGTB
General Confederation of Workers of Benin
Representing professional and social interests.
UNSTB
National Union of Workers' Trade Unions of Benin
Trade union organization and representation.
RNTTD
National Network of Domestic Workers
Representing those directly concerned.
ILO
International Labour Organization
Supporting social justice and decent work.
Frequently asked questions
The essentials, without jargon.
Simple answers for workers, employing families and citizens.
Who is covered by domestic work?
People who work in or for a household: cleaning, cooking, childcare, personal assistance, gardening, driving or security.
What does ratifying Convention 189 mean?
The State commits to applying its principles and reporting on progress.
Has Benin already ratified Convention 189?
Not yet. The campaign informs the public and supports dialogue around this next step.
Are employers concerned?
Yes. Clear rules help each party understand their responsibilities and reduce misunderstandings.
Should the agreement be put in writing?
A written agreement helps clarify tasks, working hours, pay, rest and leave. It protects the relationship and prevents misunderstandings.
Does living in the employer's home remove certain rights?
No. Accommodation does not remove the right to rest, privacy or control over one's personal time.
What should someone do in case of difficulty or abuse?
Keep any relevant records, seek advice and contact a workers' organization or the appropriate public service.
The campaign continues with you
Let's share information that matters.
Talking about domestic work already helps advance its recognition.
