Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter spoke at the Daily Star auditorium today. Photo : PID

DHAKA, July 16, 2025 (BSS)- Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter has said the issue of legitimate rights of the female domestic workers is integral part of the country’s  women’s struggle. 

The adviser said this while addressing a discussion titled “Rights of the Domestic Workers and their Challenges for Implementation: Dialogue for framing law from Policy” at the Daily Star auditorium here today.
The adviser observed that the housewives would have to do all domestic works if maids are not available. So, housewives should have mutual sympathy and supports for them. 

“We should have respect for domestic workers and rethink about the use of the word-‘maid’ for domestic helpers” she noted.

Farida Akhter said that in the urban housing system, there is no facility for domestic workers to take rest during their job. In future, every flat should have the provision and environment for relax of the domestic workers.

The adviser pointed out that the entire family suffers when their maid remain sick, who have all rights to live as worthy citizen. 

Farida Akhter said many domestic workers are seen taking jarda, gul etc to suppress their appetite. This problem can be solved if we can ensure meal for them on time, he said.

With the assistance of European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations the discussion was jointly organized by Sabujer Avijan Foundation, Oxfam and the Daily Star. 

Labour and Employment secretary AHM Shafiquzzaman addressed the function as special guest. It was also addressed, among others, by former member of women reforms commission Mahin Sultan, former member of labour reforms commission Rezakuzzaman Raton, executive director of Bangladesh Nari Sramik Kendra Sumaiya Islam and executive director of Sabujer Avijan Foundation Mahmuda Begum.