CHWs in South Asia demand recognition, dignified working conditions 

CHWs are the frontline health and childcare workers who perform a multitude of tasks, from ante- and post-natal care to health education and nutritional counselling. They are also involved in childcare for kids from 0-5 years of age. They are the first point of contact in the community for any health-related emergency. CHWs in South Asia is an all-women workforce without whom the whole architecture of primary healthcare would come crumbling down. Despite providing such important services, CHWs are not considered to be workers who deserve decent working conditions. They are not provided adequate wages, social security, medical benefits, maternity leave, pension and other rights as workers. In fact, in most of the countries in South Asia except Pakistan, they are treated as volunteers and not workers, even though the terms of their jobs are that of the workers. 

The CHWs from three countries came together to take stock of union activities and share the success stories of their union’s work. Nine affiliate unions were represented during the meeting – five from India, and two each from Nepal and Pakistan. The union leaders presented powermaps and identified influencers for future engagements. They also identified topmost priorities according to their contexts. Through a synthesis of results of this activity, a strategy to carry out future campaigns is being built. 

A major highlight of the event was the launch of the Charter of Demands of Community Health Workers in South Asia. The Launch – on 22nd August – was attended by the union representatives, officials of PSI, representatives from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and International Labour Organisation (ILO), and a Member of Parliament of Nepal. The Charter was well received. The CHWs recounted their personal experiences during the launch giving strength and human touch to the demands that were charted out. 

The demands reflect the challenges faced by CHWs and their demand for recognition and lawful monetary compensation. Among the foremost demands is their recognition as public sector employees by the government making them eligible for the salary and benefits that government employees receive. Right now, the CHWs are paid as low as 50 Euros a month in many cases. After serving the governments for three to four decades, they don’t receive pensions. There are instances in which CHW had to resort to begging or work as domestic help after retirement.  

The Charter also demands basic infrastructural facilities such as toilets, water and a room to sit and eat lunch. There is also a demand for a committee to look into cases of sexual harassment. 

 CHWs play a very important role in keeping societies healthy. It’s time that their work is duly recognized, giving them dignity and respect.