Coming Clean: The prevalence of forced labour and human trafficking for the purpose of forced labour amongst migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong
The Hong Kong Government has repeatedly stated that there is no evidence that Hong Kong is a source, destination or transit area for human trafficking.
This study presents the findings of a year-long research project to estimate the scale of forced labour and human trafficking for the purpose of forced labour amongst migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong. It is the first comprehensive study of its kind to provide evidence of the extent of the problem in Hong Kong.
The report findings show that exploitation is more widespread than the general public may be aware of and show that existing laws and policies are not adequately protecting migrant domestic workers.
Migrant domestic workers are workers – making up 10% of the workforce of Hong Kong and 4.4% of the general population. Their work is a key part of Hong Kong’s economic success, empowering parents and caregivers to join the workforce. One in three families with children in Hong Kong employs a domestic worker – and yet domestic workers remain underpaid, undervalued and often exploited.
The Hong Kong Government can no longer sweep these problems under the carpet. It’s time to come clean and acknowledge that more must be done. Migrant domestic workers have long taken care of Hong Kong’s families. It’s time that we start to take care of them.