Written by Juanita Flores (MUA’s Executive Director)

Since 2008, I have been a representative of domestic workers at the international level. We organized ourselves to carry out the process of establishing the criteria for Convention 189, which was adopted on June 16, 2011. Currently, 35 countries have ratified it internationally, including 18 in Latin America, making Uruguay the first country in the world to do so. I was part of the foundation of the FITH (International Domestic Workers Federation) and served as a member of the executive committee (Ex-co) for 10 years. During the first 5 years, we established the statutes that guide the policies of this great movement.

From May 1st to 5th, I participated in the regional congress of Latin America organized by the FITH, which took place in Brazil. Every 5 years, this congress is held on each continent, and it concludes with the international congress where the officials of the Ex-co are elected. During these congresses, proposals are also presented to include or amend the statutes that govern the FITH.

I am very proud to continue representing domestic workers at the international level. I will continue to share my experiences with the new representatives of the National Alliance of Domestic Workers (ANTH) to be part of the Ex-co in the FITH, as well as participating in groups to develop new guidelines. It is important for governments and employers to recognize that there are protections under these conventions, and we will ensure their implementation and enforcement.

Ever onward to victory!