ILC report highlights forced labour in three states of Myanmar

ILC report highlights forced labour in three states of Myanmar
Published 26 June 2019
Shine Lin Aung and Lwin Myo Thu

There have been forced labour cases in Shan, Rakhine and Kachin States where armed conflicts occur, according to a report by the International Labour Conference (ILC). 

Worker representatives who attended the 108th International Labour Conference held a report launching ceremony at Orchid Hotel in Yangon on June 25. 

The Committee on the Application of Standards is hearing cases whether ILO member countries follow its procedures. 

The committee hears cases from 24 countries yearly. The report says it is undeniable that Myanmar is committing forced labour greatly. 

"According to the report, forced labour cases are reported in these three states. They are Shan, Rakhine and Kachin states. In those conflict regions the report says how forced labour cases happen there," said Khine Zaw Aung, member of the Confederation of Trade Unions in Myanmar. 

Regarding the report, Myanmar representatives said forced labour cases did not happen in downtown areas but they usually happen in conflict areas inaccessible by ordinary people. 

They also told the committee that such cases could also been seen in some factories and businesses.