The project seeks to address the needs of ILO constituents in Myanmar to effectively realize, in law and practice, the fundamental rights of freedom of association and collective bargaining. It assists the Government, Employers and Workers to work together as social partners in a “partnership for development” which is based on the ILO core conventions and which respects the right of workers and employers to freely form employer and workers organizations, through which they engage in collective bargaining. The project continues its work in assisting nascent labour organizations in their development, including through bipartite workshops with union leaders and enterprise managers promoting constructive industrial relations. In addition, it builds the capacity of the government in the areas of regulation and enforcement.

Objectives

1. National labour market institutions are in a better position to recognize, implement and enforce fundamental rights at work;
2. Employer and worker organizations have improved capacity and effectiveness in implementation of the Labour Organization Law (LOL) and the Settlement of Labour Disputes Law (SLDL) and work together constructively on dispute resolution, collective bargaining, occupational safety and health and building an industrial relations system based on respect;
3. Promoting sound labour relations and dialogue at an industry/sector, regional and national level.

Outputs

1. New or amended labour law provisions drafted to develop national labour legislation in conformity with international labour standards, with a particular focus on the laws underpinning industrial relations;
2. Training programme for Conciliation Bodies developed and implemented;
3. Tripartite Arbitration Council and Bodies developed to better resolve labour disputes;
4. Capacity of FGLLID to effectively enforce the law developed;
5. Employers and union representatives have a better understanding and improved skills relating to the relevant laws, dispute resolution and negotiation, collective bargaining and Occupational Safety and Health;
6. Workplace cooperation established or developed at the enterprise level in accordance with freedom of association and collective bargaining rights;
7. Key leaders of unions and employers have acquired an improved understanding of the benefits of workplace cooperation and sound industrial relations practices;
8. Employers’ and workers’ organizations have increased capacity to serve and represent their members;
9. Employers and workers are aware of their rights and obligations;
10. The value of social dialogue and cooperation is promoted at the industry level, in the garment sector;
11. Tripartite Social Dialogue at national level is firmly established.

Expected Outcome

The project will increase awareness of the fundamental rights of freedom of association and collective bargaining, strengthen the tripartite constituents’ abilities to craft well-designed laws and regulations, ensure compliance through enforcement, and effectively engage in negotiations to address pressing social and economic issues at the enterprise, industry or national level.