Commentary: Unpaid Domestic Labour and its Effect Upon the Economy

Abstract

A chef prepares a meal for four, creating the flavours and sustenance for a group of four; a housekeeper disinfects surfaces, cleans, and mops flooring and launders bedding, linens and even clothing depending on the hotel or service, to ensure cleanliness in their client’s lives.  Early childhood educators change the diaper of a two-year-old child while also providing the basis for educational growth with reading, numbers, and speech.  These professions share a core commonality; they are only a fraction of the duties performed as what is known as “domestic labour”, all without pay.  But is this fair?  Or should this labour be compensated like other labour is in our society?  This article argues that they should be fairly compensated; without this labour, how would any of us manage to make it to work or school or even survive?  Domestic labour plays a vital role in society and deserves fair compensation.