Promoting Integration for Migrant Domestic Workers in Europe: A Synthesis of Belgium, France, Italy and Spain

Abstract

[Excerpt] This report is based on the findings of research conducted in Belgium, France, Italy and Spain, as part of project on “integration of migrant domestic workers in Europe”, implemented by the ILO and its partners with the financial support of the European Union. Data suggest that women migrants are often facing the greatest integration challenges, but the specific situation of migrant domestic workers in Europe remains often under- researched and little understood. Evidence-based, action-oriented research is key to producing policies that will address the needs of European labour markets, and critical to expanding the opportunities for successful integration of this important and growing segment of the population. In light of this, the current research aims: (a) to explore social, economic, and institutional factors affecting life and working conditions of migrant domestic workers in Europe; and (b) to identify challenges and practical ways public services, trade unions, employers and other social actors can support their improvement. The ambition is to better understand integration dynamics by analysing the experiences and activities of migrant domestic workers themselves in countries of destination, taking into account their voices and experiences as a main source of information.