Exploration of Socio-Economic Lives of Occult Female Domestic Workers (Informal Sector): A Case Study of Lahore

Abstract

Study was conducted in the area of Lahore and primary data was collected of 40 observations. Qualitative variables were included in the study to highlight two main concerns of the study. Research explored the causes, which urged female domestic workers to choose this profession. Semi structured interviews helped to narrate the journeys of domestic workers and the hurdles they face during their work. Moreover, the emphasis was given on the contributions of these female domestic workers in their household development. First part of study checked the causes of women who were compelled to work in informal sector and second part checked the before and after conditions of domestic workers when they started contributing in the budget. In first part male employment, social security benefits, number of dependent members, inflation and debt burden, all the variables showed their vital impact on working of women. In second part number of children going to school, debt situation, happiness, electricity bills, were taken as variables and they all observed significant changes in before and after condition of the domestic workers.  Hence, overall development was experienced in the household and this point was proved in the study. Hindrances faced by domestic workers and the socio-economic aspects of their lives were discussed in detail in this study. Policy recommendations were provided after examining the current situation.