HOME
The Humanitarian Organization for Migration Economics (HOME)[1] is a Singapore-based non-governmental organization (NGO) established in 2004 by the late Ms. Bridget Tan. HOME is dedicated to supporting and empowering migrant workers who experience abuse and exploitation.
Mission and Objectives
HOME's mission is to uphold the rights and dignity of migrant workers in Singapore through:
- Welfare: Providing direct assistance, shelter, and food for domestic workers facing abuse and exploitation.
- Empowerment: Offering skills training such as English language, computer literacy, baking, cooking, hairdressing, and caregiving courses through the HOME Academy.
- Advocacy: Engaging in public education and campaigns to raise awareness of issues affecting migrant workers and promoting policy changes to improve their lives.
Services and Programs
HOME offers a range of services, including:
- Helpdesks: Providing employment advice, legal aid, financial assistance, and medical services to approximately 2,000 workers annually.
- Shelter: Housing an average of 700 migrant domestic workers each year who are victims of abuse and exploitation.
- HOME Academy: Empowering domestic workers through educational and vocational training programs, with around 1,600 women graduating annually.
Advocacy and Impact
HOME actively advocates for migrant workers' rights and has contributed to changes in laws and policies in Singapore, such as the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act, the Employment Act, the Foreign Employees Dormitory Act, and the Prevention of Human Trafficking Act.
The organization campaigns for mandatory weekly days off for domestic workers and victim-centered human trafficking legislation.
Involvement in the Parti Liyani Case
HOME played a significant role in the high-profile case of Ms. Parti Liyani, an Indonesian domestic worker accused of theft by her employer, Mr. Liew Mun Leong, former chairman of Changi Airport Group.
After her arrest in December 2016, Ms. Parti was released on bail and sought assistance from HOME. The organization provided her with shelter, legal support, and advocacy throughout her legal battle. In September 2020, the High Court acquitted Ms. Parti of all charges, highlighting issues related to the treatment of migrant workers and the justice system in Singapore.
Through its comprehensive services and unwavering advocacy, HOME continues to play a vital role in promoting justice, equality, and dignity for all migrant workers in Singapore.