Belgian nun helps two million domestic workers in India regain dignity and rights

(August 06, 2010) In India, the National Domestic Workers Movement (NDWM) has been able to improve the conditions of some two million domestic workers, whose rights have been traditionally denied. Founded in 1985 by Sister Jeane Devos, a Belgian nun with the Order of Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, the NDWM is affiliated with the Labour Commission of the Bishops’ Conference of India. “We broke a wall of silence, slavery and exploitation,” Sr Jeane said. “Our movement has grown and we can change the situation of domestic workers through solidarity, dignity, justice and empowerment.” The NDWM operates 53 branches in 23 Indian states. Its goal is to secure the recognition and protection of domestic workers. Mgr William D’Souza, archbishop of Patna, said that steps have been taken in the right direction “to create a just society where domestic workers are treated as people with dignity, where their rights are defended, where their contribution to the economy and to development is recognised, where their voice is heard.” Over the years, the NDWM has carved a space for itself in Indian society and has found support among political leaders. Thanks to the NDWM, the International Labour Organisation has been developing labour standards for domestic workers. “Great things have happened to domestic workers,” Sr Jeane said. “We shall continue to move with faith in God and the Spirit that guides the movement.”