Protection Mechanisms by Countries of Origin for Migrant Domestic Workers from Southeast Asia: Insights from the Philippines, Indonesia and Cambodia

Countries in Southeast Asia are increasingly recognised as the source countries for migrant domestic workers (MDWs), with the majority from the Philippines and Indonesia and an increasing number from Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos. In these countries of origin, the labour export of domestic workers is actively promoted as a strategy for poverty reduction and economic development. However, in destination countries, numerous studies have revealed that MDWs from Southeast Asia frequently endure exploitation, abuse, violence, and discrimination. In a global and regional context that lacks a cohesive and effective framework to protect MDWs, the responsibility of countries of origin to take proactive measures in safeguarding their MDWs becomes more critical. This thesis contributes to the literature by analysing and comparing the protection mechanisms for MDWs throughout their migration cycle in three Southeast Asian countries of origin: the Philippines, Indonesia, and Cambodia. Through the comparative case study approach, the thesis highlights the achievements, limitations, and challenges of these mechanisms, provides insights into Southeast Asian countries' approach to the protection of MDWs, and offers suggestions to enhance protection for MDWs from Southeast Asia.