The International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) latest assessment reveals a persistent and blatant disregard by Myanmar’s military junta for the recommendations made by the ILO Commission of Inquiry (COI). Despite repeated calls for compliance, the junta has failed to take concrete action to address the serious violations of workers’ rights, particularly concerning freedom of association, forced labour, and the repression of trade unions.

Instead of substantive measures, the military authorities have provided vague and general information on labour relations, dispute resolution, and awareness-raising initiatives—areas that, as the COI previously established, fall outside their legitimate competence. What’s worse, the junta continues to deny the grave realities highlighted in the COI’s findings, including forced labour, intimidation, and suppression of independent trade union activities.

Even when the military regime sought clarification on certain recommendations, no meaningful follow-up actions have been taken. Reports from trade unions, human rights organisations, and the United Nations paint a grim picture of Myanmar’s deteriorating labour rights landscape. Workers and trade unionists remain targets of severe oppression, facing economic hardship, widespread exploitation, and relentless intimidation, particularly those opposing the military regime or resisting forced conscription.

The junta’s blatant non-compliance is not just a failure—it is a direct attack on fundamental labour and human rights. The international community must escalate pressure, impose stronger consequences, and refuse to allow Myanmar’s military to continue its reign of terror against workers with impunity.