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Foreign domestic workers in Hong Kong
Opinion
SCMP Editorial
Editorial
SCMP Editorial

Hong Kong’s domestic workers deserve dignity and cool comfort too

Inclement weather is making life harder for domestic workers who already lack places to rest and face restrictions on using air conditioning

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Domestic workers gather around tents in Tsuen Wan on their day off on May 24. Photo: Jonathan Wong
SCMP Editorial
Editorials represent the views of the South China Morning Post on the issues of the day.
Summer weather has returned to Hong Kong, bringing searing temperatures and torrential rain. Far too many domestic workers have had little respite because they are routinely told to switch off air conditioning while working at home alone during the week, only to face rest days in locations with inadequate shelter.
Lack of shelter for helpers on days off is an issue that has shown little improvement despite years of discussion. Helpers have few options other than to gather in parks, open plazas or even bus interchanges. Many face area closures, security crackdowns and public complaints. The problems deepen as weather turns inclement.

A more recent issue involves helpers being instructed to only use air conditioning when the rest of the household is present. The Hong Kong Federation of Asian Domestic Workers Unions said about 80 per cent of its members reported such restrictions. Some also said they had no air conditioning in their rooms, disrupting sleep on hot nights.

According to an International Labour Organization recommendation, domestic workers’ accommodation should have adequate lighting, heating and air conditioning, in keeping with prevailing household conditions and taking into account local laws and standards. Hong Kong law requires that helpers be provided with free, suitable accommodation that ensures reasonable privacy. Air conditioning is not specified.

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