BURMESE ORGAZATION'S NEWS
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Press Release issued on 17 November 2000, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Union of Myanmar in Yangon.
PRESS RELEASE
The Governing Body of the International Labour Organization (ILO), at its 279th Session held in Geneva, decided on 16 November 2000 to activate the
measures against Myanmar stiuplated in the resolution adopted at the 88th Session of the International Labour Conference. This decision was made
despite concrete and detailed legislative, executive and administrative measures taken by Myanmar in accordance with the ILO Convention No.29 on
forced labour.
The so-called issue of forced labour in Myanmar arose from arbitrary judgement based on misinformation. The allegations against Myanmar
emanates from elements opposed to the Government, insurgent groups and self-proclaimed workers' organizations that are more
politically-motivated than dedicated to promoting the interests of workers. Regrettably, some western governments also joined in as they would like to
put political pressure on Myanmar.
Although Myanmar has dissociated itself from the relevant ILO
resolution, it has tried to cooperate with ILO in finding solution to the problem, and even invited ILO Technical Cooperation Mission to Myanmar twice,
during which visits very fruitful discussions took place. However, the ILO and the Governing Body in particular have turn a blind eye to the
comprehensive framework of legislative, executive and administrative measures put in place in Myanmar. This decision by the Governing Body is
most regrettable and contrary to the wishes of many of its Member States who would like to see a more prudent
approach rather than a path of confrontation and coercion. Myanmar also wish to place on record its sincere thanks and appreciation to many friends
and like-minded countries who took a principled stand against this unwarranted and unjustified action by the Governing Body.
Today, Myanmar is singled out for punitive action. Tomorrow it may be another developing country. This decision sets a most dangerous
precedence in which the big powers can use the pretext of labour rights and unfounded allegations to exert pressure and interfere in the internal
affairs of developing nations. This decision will no doubt place the credibility, integrity and reputation of Governing Body and the ILO in question, as
the effect of this decision would have the negative impact on the very people it purports to protect and serve.
The action by the Governing Body is most unfair, most unreasonable and most unjust. Myanmar therefore totally and categorically rejects the
Governing Body resolution and dissociates itself from it and any activities and effects connected with it. As such, Myanmar will cease to cooperate with
the International Labour Organization in relation to the ILO Convention 29 and any activity connected with it. The present situation arose out of the
attempts of some western nations to impose their will on Myanmar. Myanmar will never be shaken by such pressure tactics and will never accept
such attempts. As a national commitment, Myanmar has already taken the necessary legislative, executive and administrative steps to prohibit the
use of forced labour. Despite the negative decision of the ILO Governing Body, Myanmar will continue to adhere and implement these positive
measures in the interest of the entire people.