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Multi-pronged approach to protect FDWs

Foreign manpower
  • The Straits Times, Online (24 July 2018): Time to consider rights-based protection for abused maids

Multi-Pronged Approach to Protect FDWs
-The Straits Times Online, 7 August 2018

  1. Ms Stephanie Chok called for better protection for foreign domestic workers who are abused (“Time to consider rights-based protection for abused maids”; 25 July).
  2. Indeed, Singapore is committed to protecting the well-being and interests of all foreign domestic workers (FDWs). Our laws and regulations, which are reviewed regularly, provide strong and comprehensive protection to FDWs working in Singapore.
  3. The Singapore Government takes all cases of abuse seriously and thoroughly investigates all complaints. During the investigation period, FDWs are provided with care and support including shelter, food and medical treatment. For FDWs who are willing and able to continue working, MOM facilitates their employment so that they could maintain an income.
  4. Singapore also has a clear record of strict enforcement against abuses and exploitation of FDWs. This means that errant employers are investigated and punished accordingly. In addition, anyone who abuses a FDW faces 1.5 times the maximum punishment under the Penal Code and will be debarred from hiring FDWs in future.
  5. Through multiple platforms, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) informs and educates FDWs on their rights and responsibilities as well as on the various channels of help, such as at the Settling-In Programme which is mandatory for all first-time FDWs. FDWs in distress can, and do contact MOM, the Police, non-governmental organisations, employment agencies, and their Embassies for assistance.
  6. We urge FDWs and members of the public to swiftly report any suspected abuse cases to MOM at 6438 5122 or the Police at 1800-255 0000, http://www.police.gov.sg/iwitness or dial ‘999’ if urgent Police assistance is required. All information will be kept strictly confidential. 

Time to consider rights-based protection for abused maids 
- The Straits Times, Online , 24 July 2018

  1.  I refer to the report (Woman who beat maid jailed 25 months; July 18).
  2. Domestic worker Ei Phyu Tun was under the care of the Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics (Home) and stayed for three years in our shelter.
  3. Despite the protracted and difficult process, we are glad that justice was finally meted out and that she was compensated for her grievous suffering.
  4. Home continues to see survivors of physical abuse, who often find it difficult to file reports against their perpetrators because of shame and fear of retaliation. Many are concerned about jeopardising their livelihoods and "creating trouble" in a foreign country.
  5. It is a difficult choice for survivors of violence and abuse to publicly relive their trauma and undertake the extended and unpredictable journey to remedial justice.
  6. The Singapore Government requires migrant worker victims who are key witnesses to remain in the country with no guarantee of financial support (In some cases they are given permission to find work). They do not have the choice to stay with their agencies or a shelter of their preference.
  7. The vulnerability of live-in migrant domestic workers to multiple forms of abuse is especially pronounced because of their high levels of dependency on employers and the hidden nature of their work and living arrangements.
  8. This is exacerbated by practices that further isolate them and control their movements: the denial of rest days, confiscation of mobile phones, intrusive surveillance, and the withholding of identity papers and documents.
  9. It is encouraging that the courts have signalled their recognition of domestic workers' increased vulnerability through a more severe sentencing framework for abuse.
  10. It is time to also consider a more rights-based approach to victim protection.
  11. Research has shown that a victim-centric approach is the most effective way of fighting abuse.
  12. Without legally guaranteed social support services and protection, it will be difficult to encourage migrant women workers to assist in investigations and bring perpetrators to justice.