Lingnan University survey shows over 25% respondents say social media has the least respect for migrant domestic helpers.
Migrant domestic helpers (MDHs) account for approximately one-tenth of Hong Kong’s labour force. For a deeper understanding of public perceptions, Lingnan University’s Department of English recently released a survey report examining the social recognition and respect shown towards MDHs in Hong Kong, revealing that nearly half of respondents have had no direct contact with MDHs. Almost 20 per cent (18.7%) have a negative impression of MDHs, and the majority of respondents think social media is the medium that shows the least respect towards them. To improve public understanding and awareness, Lingnan scholars have written bilingual (Chinese and English) “Guidelines for Writing about Migrant Domestic Helpers on Social Media”, which can be accessed free online. These guidelines aim to reduce bias and stereotypes associated with MDHs.
The research team conducted an online survey in May 2025, polling 1,007 Hong Kong residents aged 18 and above, with 79 per cent falling within the 19-49 age range, representing a highly active and influential demographic on social media platforms. The results show that 52.6 per cent of respondents hold positive views of MDHs, while 17.4 per cent expressed either “negative” or “very negative” perceptions. The top three were of MDHs “helping with household tasks” (56.8%), being “hardworking” (51.7%), and being “honest and reliable” (49.6%). Conversely, the three most common negative perceptions include “poor hygiene” (42.6%), “being dishonest and unreliable” (40.5%), and “poor cooking” (34.6%).
51 per cent of respondents, when asked about the importance of MDHs in Hong Kong, regarded them as an integral part, but 29 per cent disagreed. 47.8 per cent of respondents considered MDHs “important” or “very important” to the day-to-day functioning of households, however 22.2 per cent “disagreed” or “strongly disagreed” about the importance of their domestic contributions. Only 53.7 per cent of respondents reported having had direct contact with MDHs, and 46.3 per cent had no direct interaction. Of those without direct experience, 18.7 per cent had negative impressions of MDHs, suggesting that nearly half respondents’ perceptions are shaped by external factors.
When asked which media most disrespects MDHs, 26.4 per cent pointed to social media activities, followed by TV programmes (24.6%) and news reports (23.7%). The most effective means of improving public understanding and respect for MDHs are TV programmes (37.6%), community events (31%), and social media activities (26.4%). Thus the survey points to the media as being both a key channel for improving perceptions and a primary source of disrespectful narratives.
36.3 per cent believe adequate educational materials promoting respect for MDHs exist, but 35.1 per cent disagreed and 28.6 per cent were uncertain. 75.1 per cent of respondents were unaware of any public resources or activities aimed at educating the public about MDHs and their rights.
Prof Janet Ho, Associate Professor of the Department of English, led the study, and noted that while the public generally acknowledges MDHs as an essential part of society, information to assist understanding them is very limited. Media serves as both a primary source to shape public perceptions of MDHs and a potential breeding ground for prejudice, spreading disrespectful or discriminatory narratives. In light of the survey findings, scholars from the Department of English at Lingnan University have written free bilingual (English and Chinese) “Guidelines for Writing about Migrant Domestic Helpers on Social Media”, to inform and improve educational and media practices.
These guidelines are divided into two main sections:
- Purposes of writing about MDHs on social media: This section aims to clarify the core objectives of creating content about MDHs, encouraging content creators to produce messages that are constructive, educational, and reflect MDHs’ diversity, and that providing information and resources to help the public understand the legal rights and support networks available to MDHs.
- Ways to avoid verbal discrimination against MDHs: The guideline identifies commonly used discriminatory expressions and provides alternatives to help prevent the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes and prejudice. For example, media and social media writers might refer to a migrant domestic helper as ‘Jie Jie’. Also, media and social media writers should avoid describing the employers as ‘masters’ as MDHs represent a respected profession, not servitude.
Practical suggestions and additional content: The guideline also provides guidance on incorporating cultural diversity, referencing real-life case examples, and encouraging public engagement, so that content creators can use social media platforms to produce more ethical, balanced, and inclusive representations of MDHs, avoiding any risk of bias, disrespect, or harmful stereotype. Writers are urged to understand and respect MDHs’ cultural backgrounds, and to avoid language that might lead to misunderstandings or resentment. They may also suggest the public pay attention to MDHs’ situations, participate in their activities, or support organisations that promote their rights.
Prof Ho added “Through these free online writing guidelines, we hope to raise awareness of MDHs’ contributions, challenge stereotypes, and highlight their professionalism and diversity. We also recommend using respectful language when writing about MDHs, avoiding objectification or labelling, and emphasise cultural sensitivity to create platforms for social dialogue where MDHs can share their stories and experiences to increase general understanding.”
To learn more about the free online resource “Guidelines for Writing about Migrant Domestic Helpers on Social Media”, please visit: Writing Guidelines for Social Media Coverage of Migrant Domestic Helpers | Department of English
