More and more families nowadays have resorted to hiring foreign domestic helpers to run their households. These helpers are mostly women from Asian countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and Myanmar. While they provide valuable assistance in managing homes and caring for children, understanding their role is essential to ensuring they are treated with respect and dignity. In this blog post, learn about the role of Foreign domestic helpers (外籍家庭傭工) in modern households and the challenges they face.
What is the role of foreign domestic helpers?
Typically, foreign domestic helpers are hired to perform housekeeping duties such as cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping, and cooking. They may also assist in taking care of children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. In some cases, they may be required to run errands and perform other duties as required by their employers.
Working conditions faced by foreign domestic helpers
It is crucial to understand that foreign domestic helpers face numerous challenges in their line of work. Most of them work long hours, without proper breaks, and often in crowded living conditions. This is especially true for helpers working in countries like Singapore and Hong Kong, where employers expect them to be on call 24/7, seven days a week.
Challenges faced by foreign domestic helpers in adapting to new cultures
Most foreign domestic helpers come from vastly different cultures, which can make adapting to a new environment challenging. Working in a foreign country, with different customs, language, and social norms, can be overwhelming for some helpers. It is essential to provide them with adequate support and resources to help them transition into their new role.
Their impact on society
Foreign domestic helpers play a crucial role in modern households by enabling working parents to raise their children while maintaining their careers. They also assist in caring for the elderly and individuals with disabilities. This work is often underappreciated, and the contribution these helpers make to society is immense.
Recognizing the value of these helpers
While the role of foreign domestic helpers is critical in the functioning of many households, these individuals are often subjected to discriminatory treatment and abuse. It is crucial to recognize the value of these helpers and treat them with respect and dignity. Employers should provide them with adequate living conditions, fair wages, and give them the necessary support to perform their job adequately.
Conclusion:
Overall, the role of foreign domestic helpers is essential in modern households. These individuals provide valuable assistance in managing homes and taking care of children and the elderly. However, they also face many challenges, including long working hours, cramped living arrangements, and difficulty adapting to new cultures. It is essential to treat them with respect and dignity and provide them with adequate support to perform their roles effectively. By doing so, we can create a better working environment for these helpers and recognize the valuable contribution they make to society.
