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Build equal and discrimination-free work environments for foreign domestic workers, writes EOC Chairperson
Hong Kong is home to over 350 000 foreign domestic workers who provide vital caregiving and household support to families. Their crucial contributions not only enhance the wellbeing of individual households, but also play a significant role in sustaining the city’s economy. However, the work of foreign domestic workers is often overlooked, while some have even faced various forms of discrimination in their employers’ homes.
Riding on the International Domestic Workers’ Day, which is celebrated annually on 16 June, EOC Chairperson Ms LAM Mei-sau published an op-ed article in Ming Pao Daily and The Standard, calling on society to build equal and discrimination-free work environments for foreign domestic workers.
In her articles, Ms Lam notes that while most employers provide suitable work environments for their foreign domestic workers and treat them fairly, there are, unfortunately, still some exceptional cases. Over the years, the EOC has received various complaints from foreign domestic workers, most of which were related to disability discrimination and sexual harassment. Some foreign domestic workers have also reported facing resistance from their employers when practising their faith, such as wearing hijabs, observing Ramadan, and praying.
Ms Lam added that although religion is not a protected characteristic under the Race Discrimination Ordinance, imposing a condition or requirement that is related to the religious practices commonly observed by a racial group could amount to indirect discrimination.
“It is not hard to imagine that many such acts may simply arise from a lack of awareness and sensitivity about another culture rather than malice,” she writes. “All it takes is a little empathy and openness to asking and learning. Employment agencies can play a big role in preparing employers to accept people practicing a different ethnic culture into their homes. It is in everyone's interest to have a happy employee. Respecting an employee's cultural and religious practices builds mutual trust and loyalty.”
Meanwhile, the Labour Department will conduct a free online briefing on 12 July 2024 at 7pm to help employers of foreign domestic workers, especially first-time employers, understand their rights and obligations. An EOC representative will join the briefing and share the best practices for creating an inclusive workplace. The online briefing will be conducted in Cantonese. Enrolment is open now until 10 July 2024.
