Four years after the military coup in Myanmar, the country remains in crisis as its people continue to endure severe repression, human rights violations, and economic hardship under the oppressive military regime. On this anniversary, the ITUC-Asia Pacific has renewed its call for global solidarity and concrete action to hold the junta accountable and restore democracy.
Since the coup on 1 February 2021, the military regime has cracked down on democratic freedoms, with workers and trade unions facing severe persecution for resisting the junta’s rule. Trade union leaders have been imprisoned, strikes and protests have been violently suppressed, and fundamental labour rights have been dismantled.
At the forefront of international efforts, the ITUC-Asia Pacific has consistently condemned the actions of the military junta. “The trade union movement stands in solidarity with the workers and people of Myanmar as they continue their unwavering fight for justice, freedom, and democracy. Their courageous resistance is an inspiration. The international community must heed their demands for the restoration of civilian rule, respect for human rights, and adherence to international standards,” said Shoya Yoshida, General Secretary of the ITUC-Asia Pacific.
He also highlighted the upcoming discussion of Article 33 of the ILO Constitution at this year’s International Labour Conference. Article 33, often referred to as the ILO's ultimate enforcement mechanism, calls for member states to take measures to secure compliance when a country persistently fails to adhere to fundamental labour standards. “The invocation of Article 33 of the ILO Constitution, which will be on the agenda of this year’s International Labour Conference, signals the gravity of the situation. Its activation is a powerful statement of the global community’s commitment to holding the Myanmar military regime accountable for its continued violations of fundamental rights at work, including freedom of association and the elimination of forced labour,” he added.
The ITUC-Asia Pacific also calls on the international community to take concrete actions to oppose and counter the junta’s planned illegal sham election, restrict the junta’s access to resources that sustain its oppressive rule, and strengthen efforts to support democratic forces, including the National Unity Government (NUG).
As the crisis in Myanmar deepens, the ITUC-Asia Pacific is calling on governments, international institutions, and trade unions worldwide to step up efforts to support Myanmar’s democratic movement.
“Trade unions across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond reaffirm their solidarity with Myanmar’s workers and trade unions. On this solemn anniversary, let us remember that the will of the people must prevail. Together, we must act decisively to end the suffering and oppression in Myanmar and to restore justice, democracy, and dignity for all its people,” Shoya Yoshida said.
Stay informed about the trade union movement's campaign to restore democracy in Myanmar. Visit the campaign page.