Diplomatic Immunity and Justice Denied: Protecting Domestic Workers Under International Law

Muhammad Zuhaili Mat Rani, Mohd Shahril Nizam Md Radzi, Kamal Halili Hassan

Abstract


Domestic work refers to labour performed in or for a household, often by individuals in vulnerable situations. This paper aims to examine how international law addresses the conflict between diplomatic immunity and the protection of domestic workers’ human and labour rights. The core issue lies in recurring reports of abuse by diplomats, where domestic workers are subjected to inhumane treatment but are denied justice due to the shield of diplomatic immunity. Despite the existence of credible evidence in many cases, legal proceedings are often obstructed, raising serious concerns about accountability and access to remedies for victims. This study adopts a legal doctrinal analysis, drawing on case law, international conventions, and scholarly literature. The findings reveal that while international law—particularly the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961) and the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations (1946)—provides extensive protections for diplomatic personnel, it frequently fails to safeguard the rights of domestic workers in cases of abuse. The research concludes that these legal frameworks require reform to prevent the misuse of diplomatic immunity. States and international bodies should consider amending these conventions to achieve a balanced approach between diplomatic privileges and accountability for human rights violations. Where diplomatic immunity persists, the sending state should take appropriate measures to ensure a fair trial or provide adequate compensation. Furthermore, adopting a narrower interpretation of “official functions,” as seen in certain U.S. court decisions, may help limit the abuse of immunity. This paper underscores the need to close legal gaps and enhance enforcement mechanisms to protect domestic workers from diplomatic impunity.


Keywords


Domestic Workers; Justice; Diplomatic Immunity; International Law; Vienna Convention

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References


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