Domestic workers in Peru demand labor rights and CTS payment

On May 14, 2026, domestic workers in Peru staged a demonstration in Lima, demanding the enforcement of their labor rights and the payment of the Severance Compensation (CTS). Despite the Household Work Law enacted in 2013 that grants certain rights to these workers, many still face abuse and a lack of recognition of their entitlements.

The CTS is a right designed to protect workers in the event of termination of their employment, but many domestic workers have not received this benefit. According to data from the National Superintendence of Labor Inspection, over 90% of domestic workers in Peru are not formally registered, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation.

The situation is alarming, especially in a context where informal employment predominates in much of Latin America, affecting the economic stability of thousands of families. Domestic workers, who are mostly women, play a crucial role in the country's economy, yet their rights are often overlooked.

Activists and unions have urged the government to implement effective policies that ensure compliance with the law and protect these workers. "We are not asking for anything more than what is legally ours," stated one representative during the protest. This mobilization is part of a broader effort across the region, where domestic workers seek visibility and justice in a labor market that often marginalizes them.

Ensuring labor rights not only benefits the workers but also contributes to a fairer and more equitable economy in Peru. It is crucial for the government to take concrete measures to guarantee the protection of these workers and their integration into the formal labor system.