Unraveling Workplace Dynamics: Master-Slave Relationship between Female Domestic Workers and Their Employers in Ethiopia

Lombebo Tagesse Sibamo, Lecturer, Researcher and Policy Advisor
Annabel S. Erulkar, Population Council
Kassahun Assres, University Lecturer
Solomon Molla, University Lecturer
Nega Jibat, Jimma University

The study examined the criteria for selecting female domestics and the power dynamics within the employer-employee relationship. It used a constructivist research philosophy and a qualitative research design to gather primary data through convenience sampling. Twenty-eight respondents, domestic workers, employers, parents, and stakeholders, participated in the study. The findings revealed that employers often prefer employees with limited experience, little knowledge of urban areas, primary school education, no interest in education, and under 18. The employer-employee dynamics observed in the study resemble a master-slave relationship, characterized by limited communication, power imbalances, being overlooked and disgraced, mistreatment, and rejection. Employers experienced conflicts when employees failed to follow orders, reacted inappropriately, were intentionally sabotaged, had long phone conversations, disobedient. Employees also faced sudden termination of employment. The government and stakeholders should advocate the rights of domestics for employers and transversal pieces of training should be given to female domestics.