Polishing the Pearl of the Pacific and the City of Gold: Paid domestic work in Guayaquil, Ecuador and Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract

For most paid domestic workers, the workplace is an urban household. This article focuses on the experiences of domestic workers in two cities in the Global South: Guayaquil, Ecuador and Johannesburg, South Africa, revealing how the intersection of local context and international standards shapes labor dynamics. Specifically, we examine the impact of ILO Convention 189 and the COVID-19 pandemic on workers' lives. Drawing on decade-long studies employing diverse methodologies in each site, this comparative case study analysis provides insights into the daily challenges and adaptive strategies of domestic workers. While most traditional analyses compare national legal frameworks, we argue for the importance of city-level comparisons and explore the realities of domestic employment based on three key aspects— transportation, stigma and employer-domestic worker relationships. Finally, we advocate for more city-level research to inform policies for improving domestic workers' well-being.