WHO launches probe into allegations of domestic worker abuse

– Thailand news selected by Gazette editors for Phuket’s international community

PHUKET: The World Health Organisation (WHO) says the alleged abuse of an Ethiopian domestic worker by one of its Thailand-based executives is a matter it is taking “very seriously”.

“WHO is aware of allegations in the media about a private matter between a WHO employee in Thailand and an individual working at his residence. WHO is taking these allegations very seriously, and we are reviewing them according to WHO internal procedures,” it said in a statement yesterday.

Deputy superintendent of Nonthaburi’s Pak Kret Police Station, Colonel Mana Tianmuangpak, said investigators were determining if the executive had diplomatic immunity.

“I am going to discuss this issue [the diplomatic status] with the Foreign Affairs Ministry today. Then police will summon the suspect to give his side of the story next Monday,” Mr Mana said.

Law Society lawyer Surapong Kongchantuk said the Ethiopian maid was staying in a safe house.

“I’m cooperating with the Social Development and Human Security Ministry to find remedial actions for the maid,” he said.

After being expelled from the executive’s residence, the maid was helped by a human rights group.

She claimed that the executive beat her up, seized her passport and never paid her.

— Phuket Gazette Editors