The National Unity Government’s Ministry of Labor has welcomed the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) decision to invoke Article 33 against the military council as a victory for the people of Myanmar. The decision was made at the 113th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, in response to the military council’s violations of fundamental labor rights and human rights. Specifically, the decision addresses violations of Convention No. 87 on freedom of association and the right to organize, and Convention No. 29 on forced labor.
This decision represents a significant victory for the Myanmar people who have endured years of military oppression, including gunfire, various forms of repression, sexual violence against women, and bombing attacks on civilians and schools. On behalf of the NUG’s tripartite delegation, representatives from the Myanmar Labour Alliance, including U Maung Maung and Daw Phyo Sandar Soe, presented evidence of the military regime’s human rights violations at the conference. Despite objections from Russia, Belarus, Laos, and China, the decision received overwhelming support from employer representatives, worker representatives, and international business delegates attending the conference.
This resolution demonstrates that military groups and their allies cannot prevail through armed force alone. The decision reflects the solidarity of international governments, employers, and workers operating within the ILO’s democratic tripartite mechanism with the people of Myanmar. It shows that the international community has not turned a blind eye to the suffering of Myanmar’s people and stands united against the military regime’s oppressive actions. The decision marks a historic moment in Myanmar’s struggle for democracy and fundamental rights, proving that the international community remains committed to supporting the Myanmar people’s fight for justice and dignity.
