Minimum wage policy and domestic workers in Zambia

This study examines the role of minimum wage policy in the working conditions of domestic workers in Zambia. The introduction of a minimum wage generally tends to improve domestic worker wages, although an increasing number of domestic workers in the labour market (excess supply) tends to maintain their vulnerability since it reduces their bargaining power. This paper identifies the key actors in domestic work and suggests a model for formalising it that focuses on maid centres (domestic worker agencies). This paper uses theories concerning the structure and agency of DWs, and discusses issues of asymmetries of power; but there are some differences between live-ins and live-outs. This is related to societal perceptions, as well as weak legal and institutional frameworks.