MOL Statement: A statement on the unwarranted measures imposed by ILO

The Ministry of Labour issued a statement on the unwarranted measures imposed by the International Labour Organization (ILO). It stated that on 5th June, the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference (113th ILC) adopted a resolution concerning Myanmar.

The resolution aims to exert pressure on the Government of Myanmar through the ILO, citing non-compliance with Convention No. 87 on Freedom of Association and Convention No. 29 on Forced Labour.

The resolution calls upon Myanmar to implement the recommendations made by the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) on Myanmar, ensuring full compliance with the aforementioned Conventions.

Furthermore, unilaterally organizing meetings on matters related to Myanmar behind the country-concerned does not consistent with the ILO Constitution and it critically damages the tripartite structure of ILO with government, worker and employer representatives.

The said resolution has been adopted without due impartiality and fairness, instead, it is based on politically motivated approaches and relies on flawed assessments of the situation in Myanmar. Regrettably, the resolution includes proposals to implement measures that could exacerbate the socio-economic and labour conditions within the country.

Political pressure exerted by certain countries against Myanmar could pose a threat to job opportunities and stable income for basic workers, potentially leading to consequences that do more harm than good. Myanmar became a member of the ILO in 1948 and has ratified four fundamental Conventions.

The country continues to uphold its responsibilities as an ILO member state and has undertaken efforts aimed at promoting the well-being and interests of its workers.

Nevertheless, the Organization turns a blind eye to Myanmar’s constructive efforts in favour of politically motivated, one-sided pressure, which may undermine the confidence and trust that Myanmar’s workers place in the ILO.

In particular, Myanmar has been actively implementing the constructive recommendations outlined in the report of the CoI for the benefit of its workers.  The country has made continuous progress in this regard and has been transmitting updates on the developments in a timely and consistent manner.

However, Myanmar was disappointed with the adoption of the politically motivated resolution, which invoked Article 33 against the country by misusing Convention Nos. 29 and 87 and dissociates itself from the adoption of this resolution by the General Affairs Committee and the International Labour Conference during its 113th session.

The Government of Myanmar also expresses its appreciation to the friendly countries which dissociate themselves from the adoption of the said resolution and stand in solidarity with Myanmar.

Myanmar will continue to implement Convention Nos. 29 and 87 for the benefit of workers and employers. It will also continue to engage with the international community, including the ILO, for cooperation that does not infringe on national sovereignty and independence, aiming to bring improved labour rights, socio-economic development, and increased job opportunities for Myanmar’s workforce.