The world is rapidly evolving, and with the fast-paced life, many people are struggling to balance their work and home life. With this conundrum comes the creation of a new job market for Foreign Domestic Helpers. These are people who are generally from low-income countries and travel to developed countries to work as helpers in households, easing the day-to-day tasks for busy families. However, there have been debates about the ethics of hiring foreign domestic helpers. In this blog post, we will explore the role of Foreign domestic helper (外傭)in modern households, their living conditions and their contributions to families.
The role of foreign domestic helpers is quite significant in modern households. They are entrusted with various tasks such as cleaning, cooking, laundry, childcare and other menial jobs. Their arrival has alleviated the heavy burden of household chores on many working families. These helpers are not only skilled in their duties but also dedicated to their jobs. They work tirelessly and strive to ensure their employer’s household runs smoothly.
However, while their work is appreciated, their living conditions have been widely debated. Some people argue that they are exploited and overworked, while others object to the cultural barriers that these domestic helpers have to go through. It is important to note that the regulations governing foreign domestic helpers vary between countries. Some countries have strict guidelines, such as minimum wage, health care and adequate living space, while others do not have any regulations, leading to possible exploitation.
Despite these challenges, foreign domestic helpers continue to make a significant contribution to modern households. Parents who work long hours can entrust their children to the care of these helpers, giving them peace of mind while they are away. Furthermore, many foreign domestic helpers have specialised skills in cooking and different household duties that make them better suited for certain jobs than the employer themselves. They are also an additional member of the family who can provide support and companionship to the elderly members of the household who can also benefit from their care.
The cultural differences between domestic helpers and their employers can sometimes make communication difficult. However, this does not necessarily mean that cultural barriers cannot be overcome. One of the benefits of having a foreign domestic helper is that it opens doors to different cultures, allowing families to learn and appreciate different customs and traditions. This connection with a new culture can enrich one’s experience and broaden one’s mind.
Lastly, foreign domestic helpers can sometimes become the source of tension within the household. Employers need to ensure that they are respectful and considerate of their domestic helper’s feelings and opinions. It is vital to treat them like any other member of the household with equal rights to fair remuneration, breaks from work and other benefits. Moreover, it’s essential to avoid using them as a punching bag whenever things go wrong in the household. We need to acknowledge and value their work and recognise that they deserve respect and dignity in their work.
Conclusion:
Foreign domestic helpers play a crucial role in many modern households. They are helping to create a better work-life balance for many families. However, while their work is necessary, their living conditions have been a topic of concern globally. We should focus on efforts to strengthen regulations and ensure they are respected in their work, paid fair wages and have safe and adequate living conditions. Equally important is treating them with respect and dignity, as we would treat any other member of the family. We must acknowledge that they are contributing to our lives in an enormous way, and we need to treat them accordingly.
