There are approximately 390,000 migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong, with the majority coming from the Philippines and Indonesia. These workers comprise approximately 10% of the employed population. (As of March 2019/Source: Hong Kong Immigration Department) and are an indispensable part of Hong Kong’s labour market. Yet, many of them do not understand their basic rights and the different kinds of labour protection available to them. Some frequently encounter unreasonable treatment including long working hours, undesirable living environments, leave deduction, wage default, exploitation by employment agencies, etc. There are even cases of physical and mental abuse, as well as sexual harassment. As many migrant domestic workers do not know how to seek assistance, they frequently endure the abuse silently.

Human rights and justice are universal values and beliefs; they are also hallmarks in any civilised society. As such, since 1993, Christian Action has been providing service programmes for migrant domestic workers to help them fight for their legal rights and to provide suitable protection. At the same time, this also provides a platform where we seek justice together. Apart from providing suitable services and assistance, we also try to raise awareness about the plight of migrant domestic workers to enhance society’s understanding of their situation and eradicate prejudice and discrimination. 

• Provide rights-based and critical intervention consultations and emergency assistance to help them understand their rights and legal protection
• Set up an emergency shelter to provide a safe haven so they can live in a safe and peaceful environment while their cases are being processed
• Provide psychological counselling and assistance to address their emotional problems and mental health
• Organise activities with partner organisations to enhance the workers’ knowledge of their health care, social welfare and other rights and help the public understand the challenges faced by workers
• Organise training and interest classes to enhance their skills
• Organise recreational activities to help them build their social circles where they can help each other