The Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the UN in Geneva categorically rejects the malicious allegations levelled in a TV programme telecast by RTS on 6th June and regurgitated by other media outlets. The insinuations of “exploitation” and “no salary” to domestic household employees in exchange for legitimation cards have no factual basis.
When contacted by RTS prior to the telecast, this Mission had provided a written response repudiating the false assertions, urging it not to dignify unsubstantiated allegations and reaffirming Mission’s compliance with Swiss rules and regulations in these administrative matters. It is regrettable that the RTS chose to run a programme with misleading information.
Pakistan Mission in Geneva has been and remains committed to complying with Swiss rules and regulations pertaining to household employees. The Mission has extended full cooperation to the Swiss side, which has been acknowledged. The proofs of payments have been shared with the Swiss side. Any complaint on amount and timing of payment is addressed within applicable regulations. The question of no salary to domestic household employees or their exploitation does not arise.
This is the backdrop in which a section of the local media has sought to sensationalize the matter by peddling falsehoods. Pakistan Mission reserves the right to take libel action against such disinformation.
Pakistan Mission values free media and freedom of journalists to report. This right, however, must be exercised with responsibility, due diligence and objectivity.
11 June 2021
Geneva