MAID ABUSE IN SINGAPORE: UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOURS BEHIND CLOSED DOORS

Abstract

Foreign Domestic Workers (FDWs) are not an uncommon sight in Singapore. Every year, the number of permits issued to FDWs coming into Singapore increases and with that comes an increase in the number of cases of maid abuse. Although there are many cases that have been brought to light, a great number of incidences of abuse and unacceptable behaviours toward FDWs are hidden behind closed doors. There is evidence that points to power differences and inequalities as the main driver behind the rise of abuse. Sharing a space within the four walls of a home, enhances and magnifies the differences between FDWs and their employers, triggering the manifestations of violence, both directly and indirectly. Dwelling on the concepts of social stratification and social status helps one to understand the consequences and impact of power differentials within the household. With a theoretical framework in place, together with research findings on social relations, attitudes and perspectives, rights and inequalities, it shows how power differences and inequalities gives rise to maid abuse in homes in Singapore. This takes us one step closer to eradicating maid abuse in Singapore.