Domestic laborers play a crucial role in sustaining the daily functioning of Bangladesh's bustling urban centers. Individuals belonging to various age groups, ranging from adolescents to middle-aged adults, play a crucial role in ensuring the overall welfare of their respective families. Nevertheless, there is a legitimate reason for concern over the working conditions of numerous assistants. The current state of affairs has given rise to a narrative characterized by despair stemming from the exploitation of individuals, inadequate remuneration, substandard nutritional conditions, and restricted entitlements. Female domestic workers migrate from rural areas to metropolitan centers for improved economic prospects. The environment they encounter, however, often diverges significantly from their initial expectations. Individuals are tasked with demanding responsibilities, including domestic chores, culinary activities, and the care of children, among others. Despite the crucial nature of their contributions, individuals in this occupation frequently endure extended working hours, inadequate remuneration, and a shortage of opportunities for leisure. The individuals' emotional and physical well-being has been significantly impacted by an ongoing cycle of exploitation.

The working circumstances that many domestic assistants are forced to endure are deplorable. They are susceptible to maltreatment and overwork because they have no legal rights. Domestic assistants' pay is sometimes unfairly low, considering their work. This keeps them in a cycle of poverty and limits their opportunities for improvement. Physical health problems arise from insufficient access to clean meals and enough leisure and recreation. In addition, their mental health suffers because of the strain of their profession, which might ultimately lead to stress-related illnesses. During times of illness or emergency, domestic assistants are in a difficult position because they cannot access social security benefits or healthcare.

Enacting and strictly enforcing comprehensive labor legislation for domestic assistants is critical. The minimum salary, acceptable working hours, and paid time off should all be guaranteed by law. Severe punishments will deter violators. Helping domestic workers access education and training programs might provide them with career options. Providing them with training can help them become less reliant on domestic labor. By spreading information to individuals and families, awareness campaigns can help people become more compassionate and empathetic. Domestic assistants' achievements should be celebrated to promote an environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Those experiencing mental or physical anguish can receive much-needed assistance through established helplines, counseling programs, and safe spaces. These groups can provide support and information. Government agencies, NGOs, and the business sector must work together to build this infrastructure. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can help by offering education and advocacy, and businesses can help by creating equal employment opportunities.

Several beneficial results are possible if Bangladesh takes up the problems encountered by domestic workers and implements these remedies. Fair working conditions and access to support networks will improve trained assistants' physical and mental health. Helpers can break out of the cycle of low-paying domestic employment if they can acquire new skills and education. Public education efforts and one weekly holiday, 1/2 hours work-break will result in more respect and acknowledgment for domestic workers' contributions. Stricter laws will discourage wrongdoing and cut down on abuse. Stronger, more self-sufficient communities will result from cooperative efforts between different parties.

There is an immediate need to improve the lives of Bangladesh's domestic workers. We can protect their rights, dignity, and well-being if we take on the problems they face and execute the solutions that have been suggested. These workers are the lifeblood of many households, and our moral obligation is to ensure that they are treated fairly and given the chances to which they are entitled. Let us move on to create a society where house workers are treated with respect and can achieve their full potential as workers.

Dr. Mohammad Shahidul Islam, Assistant Professor of Marketing, BRAC Business School, BRAC University. E-mail: mohd.sh.islam@bracu.ac.bd