A national reality
117,000domestic workers estimated in Benin
RNTTD estimate · June 2026
Domestic worker, a worker like any other
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
The C189 campaign
Together to recognize the status and defend the rights of domestic workers.
A collective campaign led by workers' organizations in Benin, with support from the International Labour Organization.
Information: 01 53 03 32 98Key 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
Before and after Convention 189
What ratification would make clearer.
The Convention does not turn household life into paperwork. It sets shared reference points for a simpler, safer and more peaceful working relationship.
Today
Working conditions may remain verbal.
With C189
Clear and understandable terms, preferably in writing.
Today
Hours and availability may lack clear limits.
With C189
Working time, standby periods and weekly rest are better regulated.
Today
Payment practices may vary.
With C189
Direct, regular payment in line with the applicable minimum.
Today
Protection and remedies may be difficult to access.
With C189
Health, safety, social protection and complaint mechanisms are recognized.
Convention 189
An international treaty for decent work.
Convention 189 is the ILO treaty dedicated to domestic work. Ratification means that the State formally commits to applying its obligations and reporting on progress.
2011adopted
2013in force
40ratifications
Clear conditions
Tasks, hours, pay and leave are explained clearly, preferably in writing.
Working time and rest
Hours are regulated and at least 24 consecutive hours of weekly rest are guaranteed.
Regular pay
Payment is direct, regular and respects the minimum wage where applicable.
Health and social protection
A safe working environment and social protection, including maternity, are pursued.
Dignity and remedies
Protection from abuse, harassment and violence, with accessible remedies.
Freedom to organize
Freedom of association and collective bargaining are fully 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.
Three perspectives, one relationship
Listen to the people who make the profession work.
Recognition advances when workers, families and organizations can express their realities with respect.
“When tasks and hours are clear, I can organize my work and family life better.”
“A simple agreement protects the family too. Everyone knows what to do and the relationship is more peaceful.”
“Recognition begins with listening, known rights and the freedom to organize.”
Dialogue in Benin
Dialogue is underway, while a decision is still awaited.
Benin has not yet ratified Convention 189. Legal analysis, tripartite work and public information have nevertheless moved the process forward.
- 2022
Compliance review
The Government reports a review of national law against the Convention.
- Feb. 2025
TRADOM launch
A tripartite working group brings together public authorities, workers and employers.
- June 2026
National campaign
Partner organizations bring information to the public.
- Today
Ratification pending
No public parliamentary timetable has been announced to date.
Last updated: August 2026
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.
Campaign materials
The campaign in pictures.
Five professions, one message of recognition. Share or download each official campaign visual.
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 Convention is an international labour treaty. By ratifying it, the State formally commits to applying its obligations, adapting national law where necessary and reporting to the ILO.
What could change in Beninese law?
The national review will identify the adjustments required. C189 calls for clear conditions, rest, regular pay, safety, social protection and accessible remedies.
Will ratification necessarily cost employers more?
Its first purpose is a clearer relationship that complies with the law. Concrete effects will depend on national measures, while known rules can also reduce disputes and instability.
When could ratification happen?
Benin has not yet ratified the Convention and no public parliamentary timetable has been announced. Tripartite dialogue and the national campaign are preparing the next step.
What can workers and employers do now?
Preferably set out tasks, hours, rest, pay and leave in writing. If difficulties arise, seek advice from a workers' organization or the appropriate public service.
How can citizens support the campaign?
Share the campaign visuals, explain the rights covered by C189 and encourage respectful working relationships in your community.
The campaign continues with you
Let's share information that matters.
Talking about domestic work already helps advance its recognition.
