Homenet International 8th Executive Committee Meeting and Leadership Development Training

In October 2024, HomeNet International’s Executive Committee, leaders, and secretariat gathered in Bangkok for a milestone event celebrating the creativity, unity, and dedication of home-based workers worldwide. The event featured an inspiring exhibition of products crafted by our member affiliates, showcasing the unique skills and ingenuity of home-based workers.

Throughout the sessions, attendees engaged in meaningful discussions on key issues impacting home-based workers, led by our partners from HomeNet Thailand. The day was enriched by cultural performances, with local home-based workers sharing traditional songs and dances, adding vibrancy to our shared journey.

HomeNet International’s (HNI) Landmark Engagements in Thailand

1. Meeting with Thailand’s Labour Minister, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn
In a pivotal moment for home-based workers’ rights, HNI’s Executive Committee members and regional coordinators met with Thailand’s Minister of Labour, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. HNI introduced its mission and outlined its objectives to promote and protect home-based workers globally. The dialogue focused on advocating for Thailand to ratify ILO Convention 177, a landmark policy for recognizing and safeguarding the rights of home-based workers. Minister Ratchakitprakarn responded positively, committing to make Thailand the first Asian nation to ratify the C177, signifying a groundbreaking advancement for workers’ rights in the region.

2. HNI’s 8th Executive Committee Meeting
HNI’s 8th Executive Committee convened in Bangkok to discuss strategic priorities and ongoing initiatives. This meeting provided an opportunity for leaders to share insights on the challenges and successes in representing and organizing home-based workers worldwide.

3. Panel Discussion: C177 Ratification and Formulation
A dynamic panel discussion brought together experts and advocates to explore the path forward for C177 ratification and policy formulation in Thailand. Participants emphasized the essential protections and opportunities C177 would offer, envisioning improved conditions for home-based workers throughout Asia.

4. Field Visit
The HNI delegation visited local home-based workers, gaining firsthand insights into their working conditions, challenges, and innovations. This visit highlighted the resilience and creativity of these workers and reaffirmed HNI’s commitment to uplifting their voices on a global stage.

5. Leadership Training
A specialized leadership development session focused on enhancing HNI leaders’ skills in advocacy, resource mobilization, and organizational growth. This training empowered attendees with tools to drive impact within their communities and foster solidarity among home-based workers worldwide.

6. Celebration of Home-Based Workers Day
The week culminated in a celebration of Home-Based Workers Day, honoring the dedication and achievements of home-based workers across Thailand and beyond. Traditional performances, a vibrant exhibition of workers’ crafts, and shared stories made for a memorable day of cultural appreciation and collective pride.

For more on these developments, visit the Ministry of Labour’s website in Thailand.