Study points to ‘systematic abuse’ of au pairing

Au pairs in Ireland are subjected to high levels of exploitation and abuse which, in extreme cases, is akin to slavery and imprisonment, a study shows.

The research, conducted by the Migrant Rights Centre of Ireland (MCRI), pointed to “systemic abuse” of au pairing, which is supposed to be a cultural and language exchange. It said au pairs were used “as a cheap form of childcare” without the equivalent rights of childcare workers.

In the worst cases, young women were having their documents withheld, movements monitored, and freedom restricted.