323rd  Session of the Governing Body of International Labour Organization

(12-27 March 2014)

GB.320/INS/4

Draft Statement by India on Fourth Agenda Item under INS Section on
“Follow-up to the resolution concerning remaining measures on the subject of Myanmar adopted by the Conference at its 102nd Session (2013) – Review of the situation in Myanmar on issues relating to ILO activities, including forced labour, freedom of association, and the impact of foreign investment on decent working conditions”

Mr. Chairman,

1. My delegation would like to thank the ILO Secretariat for the document prepared by them which gives a good insight into the reform process taking place in Myanmar and associated ILO programme of work in Myanmar.    We also thank the delegation of Myanmar for providing comprehensive information on the developments in Myanmar in this regard.

2. We note that the Government of Myanmar has embarked on the path of political, economic and social reforms.  These measures will certainly build trust amongst the people of Myanmar.

3. My delegation notes that ILO is actively engaged in Myanmar through a mutually agreed programme of work.  We note that tripartite consultations were held in Myanmar in December 2014, which reviewed the programme of work of ILO.   We understand that these consultations culminated with all parties agreeing to establish a national tripartite forum.  We are informed that the forum would discuss, among other things, the Decent Work Country programme. These measures will help develop an atmosphere of trust and betterment of the labour, which should, undoubtedly be the ultimate aim for any Member State.

5. India has been of the view that workers’ rights are of paramount importance and should always be respected.  We also believe that dialogue and cooperation and coordination amongst all parties   is the key to resolve all labour related issues.   On these lines, India would like to urge ILO and all Member States to continue to extend technical assistance and guidance to enable Myanmar to move ahead in the path of social and economic reforms, particularly on labour-related front.

Thank you.

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