The U.S. Department of Labor, in collaboration with the departments of Treasury, State, Commerce, Homeland Security and U.S. trade representatives, have issued an advisory highlighting legal risks in Burma in response to allegations of corruption, illicit finance and human rights abuses.
Since taking over the country in a February 2021 coup, the Burmese military has reportedly killed more than 1,400 people and committed numerous human rights abuses against the citizens of Burma, according to a recent DOL press release.
The Burmese military regime is cracking down on the labor union movement in the country. The regime has reportedly outlawed 16 labor unions, attacked striking workers, and arrested many union leaders and members.
"The Burmese military have relentlessly attacked and arrested union leaders and members," Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh said in the release. "These actions are unacceptable."
In response to these allegations, a Burma Business advisory has been issued highlighting the heightened risks of doing business in Burma.
"The Burma Business Advisory serves to remind all businesses and individuals to consider the serious risks of doing business there, and ensure they do not directly or indirectly support the country’s military junta," according to the release. "By making labor exploitation unprofitable to the regime, governments around the world and the business community can stand in opposition to the military’s repression, while keeping goods produced by child and forced labor out of our supply chains."
Research by the Bureau of International Labor Affairs shows evidence that Burma uses child labor and forced labor to produce 14 types of goods and reports indicate that the Burmese military forces civilians and children to work in conflict areas.
