ISTANBUL, June 8 — Myanmar’s military government has criticised a United Nations (UN) labour resolution passed against it, calling the move “politically motivated” and ineffective.
Anadolu Ajansi reported the Labour Ministry as saying in a statement yesterday that the decision would have no impact on employers, workers, or businesses in Myanmar.
The resolution was adopted on Thursday during the 113th Session of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Geneva, Switzerland.
It marked only the third time the ILO has invoked Article 33 of its Constitution.
According to the International Trade Union Confederation-Asia Pacific (ITUC-AP), Article 33 was first applied to Myanmar in 2000 and again to Belarus in 2023.
The ILO called on governments, employers and workers to avoid any dealings that could support or prolong violations of labour rights, particularly forced labour and suppression of union activity.
It urged a review of any activities that might contribute to such abuses, including the supply of military equipment or jet fuel, as well as the transfer of funds to military authorities.
The ILO also encouraged its constituents to report any findings that suggest direct or indirect involvement in forced labour or violations of freedom of association.
Meanwhile, Myanmar’s opposition National Unity Government (NUG) welcomed the resolution, calling it a “victory” for the people.
“This ILO decision is a victory for the Myanmar people, achieved through years of resilience against the military’s bullets, various forms of oppression, sexual violence against women, and airstrikes targeting civilians and schools,” it said.
The NUG added that the decision highlights the military junta’s actions to the international community.
— Bernama
