Today at the International Labour Conference, the Irish Congress of Trade Unions joined with the Australian Council of Trade Unions, and the Indonesian Workers Welfare Union (KSBSI) to express their solidarity and support for the people and workers of Myanmar in a case before the ILO’s supervisory mechanism – the Committee on the Application of Standards.
The ILO Committee of Experts notes, ‘freedom of association can only be exercised in conditions in which fundamental human rights are fully respected and guaranteed’.
David Joyce, the Worker Delegate from Ireland at the conference added: “It is clear that since the military coup in Myanmar in February 2021, fundamental rights and civil liberties have been under attack. Our joint statement with the Australian and Indonesian unions is a symbolic of the worldwide trade union solidarity for the people of Myanmar. Attacks on workers and civilians and the violations of human rights must cease immediately.
The international community must hold the SAC accountable for the gross violations of human rights, including the right to freedom of association; enact sanctions and cease the flow of arms to Myanmar to stop the atrocities, and recognise the National Unity Government as the official and legitimate Government of Myanmar.”
Read the full speech here.
Photo: Clare Middlemas ACTU, David Joyce ICTU