Face Off: Should foreign domestic helpers be given the same wages and rights as other workers?

Foreign domestic workers are crucial to Hong Kong’s economy. They allow families to focus on professional commitments by taking care of homes, children and elderly family members. This support enables dual-income households to function efficiently, contributing an estimated HK$12.6 billion (US$1.6 billion) to Hong Kong’s gross domestic product (GDP).

However, these migrant workers remain underpaid, earning a minimum of only HK$4,990 (US$642) per month in one of the world’s most expensive cities. While employers provide their accommodation and at-home meals, this cannot justify such low wages.

Domestic workers are required to live with their employers, an arrangement that often leads to privacy violations and an expectation to be constantly available. They often endure 14 to 19 hours of work per day, far exceeding the typical hours of other employees. The lack of autonomy in this set-up can be taxing; forcing workers to live with their employers without alternative housing options gives them little independence.

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As many domestic workers send a significant portion of their income to support their families in their home countries, little is left for their personal expenses or savings.

The inequality in pay is made worse by the lack of legal rights, which leaves them vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. Domestic workers must leave Hong Kong within 14 days of contract termination if they fail to secure another job.

This policy makes these migrant domestic workers reluctant to report abuse for fear of job loss and deportation. In contrast, other employees in Hong Kong enjoy far better job security and legal protection.

Providing domestic workers equal wages and rights is a moral imperative and makes practical sense for Hong Kong. Fair compensation and protection would increase job satisfaction, resulting in higher-quality care for Hong Kong’s families.

Ensuring domestic workers have the same legal protections as other employees would create a safer working environment and enhance Hong Kong’s global reputation.

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Most foreign domestic workers in Hong Kong come from the Philippines and Indonesia, where wages are generally lower. The economic reality means that many workers accept the pay offered in Hong Kong in exchange for the opportunity to earn significantly more than they could at home.

These countries work collaboratively with the Hong Kong government to ensure their respective imported labour force is protected and paid reasonably. Legal frameworks and specific regulations govern workers, including a set minimum wage and human rights. This is why migrant workers’ pay, while comparatively low, is fair.

There is undoubtedly room for improvement, but the unique aspects of domestic work – which differ from those of other industries – are accommodated. Domestic workers in Hong Kong have a standard employment contract drawn up that outlines details such as job responsibilities, salary and working hours.

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Many Hong Kong families depend heavily on domestic help to manage their daily lives. If domestic helpers’ wages are increased to match other workers in the city, many families might be unable to employ them. As the cost of living rises, many might even consider not having children to minimise their expenditure. This decision would contribute directly to the city’s low birth rate.

Foreign domestic workers are an integral part of this city whose work cannot go unnoticed. However, their wages and rights match agreements between Hong Kong and their home countries and, given the nature of their work, their different wages and protections are adequate and reasonable.