In many developed countries, foreign domestic helpers play a crucial role in supporting households by taking care of domestic chores, childcare, and elderly care. However, behind the scenes, these helpers often face significant economic and financial struggles, living on the edge of poverty despite their essential contributions to society. One of the primary challenges faced by foreign domestic helpers is low wages. Many of them are paid meager salaries that barely cover their basic needs, let alone allow them to save or invest for their future. In some cases, they are paid below the minimum wage or forced to work overtime without compensation, further exacerbating their financial woes. Additionally, the living expenses in the host countries can be exorbitant, leaving foreign domestic helpers with little disposable income after paying for necessities such as food, accommodation, and transportation. High rental costs, especially in urban areas, often consume a significant portion of their earnings, leaving them with little room for savings or emergencies. Moreover, the lack of job security adds to the economic uncertainty faced by foreign domestic helpers.
Many are employed on temporary contracts with no guarantees of renewal, leaving them vulnerable to sudden job loss and financial instability. This precarious employment situation makes it challenging for them to plan for the future or make long-term financial commitments. Furthermore, foreign domestic helpers often lack access to financial services such as banking and insurance. Language barriers, documentation requirements, and discrimination from financial institutions make it difficult for them to open bank accounts, obtain loans, or purchase insurance policies. Without access to these essential services, they are left unprotected against unforeseen expenses or emergencies, further perpetuating their cycle of poverty. Another significant issue is the lack of legal protection and social support for foreign domestic helpers. Many countries have inadequate labor laws and regulations governing their employment, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and abuse by unscrupulous employers. Cases of unpaid wages, physical and verbal abuse, and forced labor are not uncommon, yet many helpers fear speaking out due to the risk of losing their jobs or facing deportation.
Additionally, social isolation and marginalization exacerbate the economic and financial struggles faced by foreign domestic helpers. They often live in cramped quarters provided by their employers, with limited opportunities for social interaction or integration into the local community. This isolation not only affects their mental well-being but also hinders their access to support networks and resources that could help alleviate their financial burdens. Foreign domestic helpers play a vital role in supporting households in developed countries, yet they often find themselves living on the edge of poverty due to low wages, high living expenses, job insecurity, lack of access to financial services, and inadequate legal protection. Addressing these economic and 外傭續約 requires concerted efforts from governments, employers, and civil society to ensure fair wages, decent working conditions, and access to financial services, and social support for this vulnerable group. Only then can foreign domestic helpers truly thrive and contribute positively to the societies in which they work.