Mizzima

A report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) on labour violations committed by the Myanmar junta has been embraced by the Confederation of Trade Unions Myanmar (CTUM).

The 22 September Commission of Inquiry (COI) report says that if the junta does not rectify the violations Myanmar would face sanctions, as it previously did in 2000. 

The junta has completely rejected the report.

Maung Maung, the CTUM Chairman told Mizzima that the junta needs to abide by the standards set internationally.

He said: “In addition to the issue of forced labor, we reported on and gave evidence showing how it is forbidden to form unions and the insulation and oppression [of workers] the prohibition of forming a union, insulation, and oppression with evidence. currently, the junta is rejecting the report.”

The junta does not recognise the ILO’s Commission of Inquiry (COI) and did not allow it into the coun try, despite the country being signed up to the ILO.

Maung Maung said: “In its repudiation [of the report], the junta states that it hurts their dignity and claims that it insults Myanmar’s self-governance. They need to know that it is necessary to follow international standards if they want to be accepted internationally. Therefore, if they refuse to follow the report’s recommendations for reform, Myanmar will be prosecuted under Article 33 of the ILO’s constitution just as in 2000.”

Previously the ILO prosecuted Myanmar for breaches of Labour law in 2000.

Since the February 2021 coup employers have oppressed and exploited workers more and trade unions have become considerably weaker.