Taichung's Oversight Criticized: Migrant Caregivers Face Abuse and Exploitation in Taiwan

Taiwan's Control Yuan Blasts Labor Bureau's Failure to Protect Vulnerable Workers

Taipei, Taiwan, April 18 – The Control Yuan of Taiwan has issued a censure against the Labor Affairs Bureau of Taichung City, highlighting significant failings in the protection of migrant caregivers, specifically two Indonesian nationals, who suffered abuse and forced labor.

In a statement released last Friday, the Control Yuan criticized the bureau for its inadequate inspections of migrant caregivers, missing crucial opportunities to intervene and protect their rights. This negligence, according to the watchdog, constituted a serious breach of duty.

One caregiver, identified as "S," endured regular beatings, forced water intake, and was compelled to work up to 21 hours daily without full compensation, as documented by the Control Yuan's investigation.

Another caregiver, "W," was also subjected to exploitative labor conditions, the Control Yuan reported.

Despite an initial interview with "S," the labor bureau failed to identify any signs of abuse, partially due to the employer’s close supervision of the visit.

"S" arrived in Taiwan in April 2022 to care for a family member. Over nine months, she was physically abused by three members of the family. Authorities later categorized her case as human trafficking.

"W" came to Taiwan in January 2022 to care for a fully dependent individual. She was reportedly forced to work from 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily and was also required to perform medical procedures, such as phlegm suctioning, the watchdog detailed.

Despite "W" filing complaints beginning in May 2022, the Taichung authorities delayed inspections, citing COVID-19 restrictions, according to the Control Yuan.

The watchdog further stated that the bureau did not follow up via telephone. The bureau inspected the case only after "W" had left her job, thus missing the chance to assess her working conditions directly.

According to the Control Act, the agency censured must promptly implement corrective measures and submit a written response to the Control Yuan.

If the agency fails to respond with improvements or fails to submit a written reply within two months, the Control Yuan may, by a committee resolution, issue a written inquiry or summon the responsible official for questioning.