Yes, partners in the MADE project believe that there are very severe constraints to freedom of association, and to the operation of trade unions and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society in Myanmar. It was this which prompted the Governing Body of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2022 to establish a Commission of Inquiry in respect of the non-observance of International Labour Standards in"Myanmar, in particular Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948 (No. 87)" " and the" Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29)".
However, despite the severe challenges to freedom of association, trade unions still legally exist at factory level, and at federation level. Organisations and individuals committed to supporting workers rights continue to operate, despite the difficult circumstances. MADE aims to support their resilience, and their ability to engage with business to resolve grievances.