Latest modern slavery fight updates - FreedomUnited.org

“Delivery In 30 Days”: Jordan’s Domestic Workers Sold Like Commodities

  • Published on
    January 16, 2018
  • News Source Image
  • Category:
    Domestic Slavery, Forced Labor, Human Trafficking
Hero Banner

Recruitment agencies for migrant domestic workers in Jordan have come under fire for advertising women as commodities that can be bought, using language such as “order your helper without an advanced payment” and “delivery in 30 days.” One even read, “We offer you the ability to return and replace your maid under the provisions of law.”

Observers believe this is largely due to a lack of sensible editorial judgement and inconsiderate behavior of advertisers. Yet it is also indicative of how domestic workers are viewed as a lower social class by some members of the public.

Albawaba reports:

“These ads depict domestic workers as items rather than as human beings. They are excessively harmful and are a textbook case of commodification of humans,” said president of Tamkeen Fields For Aid, Linda Kalash.

Citing a recruitment agency’s promotional video in which domestic workers introduce themselves and end up saying “choose me,” Kalash said that such ads enhance the negative perception towards domestic workers as inferior to other persons, an image inherent in the kafala (sponsorship) system.

According to the International Labour Organisation Media-friendly glossary, the kafala system is used as a means to regulate migrant labour in several Arab countries, including Jordan, where a migrant worker’s immigration and legal residency status is tied to an individual sponsor (kafeel) through a contract period during which the worker cannot resign from his/her job, transfer employment, or leave the country without first obtaining explicit permission from his/her employer.

The Domestic Helpers Recruitment Agencies Association (DHRAA) has also raised concerns that some recruiters are putting out public advertisements using domestic workers’ personal photos, passport pages, and application forms that include detailed personal information. It has recently sent notices to five agencies and suspended two for these violations.

The government has responded to the issue by saying that people’s feelings and dignity must be “respected and protected.” Labor Ministry Spokesperson, Mohammad Khatib, added, “I believe that ads must be watched by the Jordan Media Monitor [an NGO] and must abide by regulations governing the print and online media work.”

Subscribe

Freedom United is interested in hearing from our community and welcomes relevant, informed comments, advice, and insights that advance the conversation around our campaigns and advocacy. We value inclusivity and respect within our community. To be approved, your comments should be civil.

stop icon A few things we do not tolerate: comments that promote discrimination, prejudice, racism, or xenophobia, as well as personal attacks or profanity. We screen submissions in order to create a space where the entire Freedom United community feels safe to express and exchange thoughtful opinions.

Notify of
guest
1 Comment
Most Voted
Newest Oldest
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Margret Egger
Margret Egger
6 years ago

It can’t get much worse – high time for urgent change!

This week

Florida depends on exploited incarcerated workers for Hurricane Helene recovery support

Florida is once again turning to forced prison labor for essential public services. This time the state needs help clearing debris following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently boasted the use of what he called “low-security inmates” to manage cleanup operations. But how does the Sunshine State treat the people who are providing this critical service? Trapped in debt as Florida saves money As Florida

| Wednesday October 2, 2024

Read more