Editorial | Hong Kong human trafficking law is long overdue
- Claims of helper sexually abused by employer stress the need to better protect victims and ensure they receive justice
Human trafficking is a global problem with millions of victims, mostly in Asia. Hong Kong is not immune to this serious crime.
The city has long faced allegations that it is a hub for such activities and is failing to do enough to prevent them. Last month, a judge ruled on a shocking court case brought by a domestic helper from the Philippines who was sexually abused by her employer.
Mr Justice Russell Coleman declared that the absence of a dedicated law tackling forced labour had led to failures in the police investigation. He ruled the government had breached its duty to “afford practical and effective protection” for victims.
An elderly doctor was convicted of indecently assaulting the domestic worker and jailed for 30 months. But she said these crimes were just the tip of the iceberg and alleged she was a victim of human trafficking and forced labour.
She also provided evidence that other women had been abused by her employer.