Work-related abuse and exploitation among Ethiopian female migrant domestic workers in Middle Eastern countries

Abstract

Ethiopian women have been migrating to countries in the Middle East for work more frequently in recent years. However, research on these migrants' working conditions is still scarce. This study examines the prevalence of work-related abuse and exploitation among Ethiopian female migrant domestic workers. It also explores whether these experiences vary by legal status or destination country. A mixed-methods approach was used. Quantitative data was gathered from 224 randomly selected female returnees and analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. The qualitative part included four focus group discussions with eight returnees each, 18 in-depth interviews with returnees, and six key informant interviews with representatives from government agencies, private employment agencies, and NGOs, analyzed through thematic content analysis. The findings show that most migrant domestic workers faced serious work-related abuse and exploitation. This included being forced to work long hours, performing tasks beyond what was originally agreed upon, working in multiple households, enduring poor working conditions, and overstaying their contracts. The statistical analysis revealed no significant differences in abuse experiences based on legal status and destination country differences. This may be due to similar labor systems, like the kafala system, across Gulf States, which provides little protection for migrant workers. Moreover, although it needs further study, many returnees reported discriminatory treatment and work assignments based on nationality. The study suggests creating bilateral and multilateral labor agreements with destination countries to reduce abuse/exploitation and ensure fair treatment for all migrant workers.

Keywords:  Female migrant, work-condition, abuse, Ethiopia, Middle East