Myanmar Junta Suspends Work Permits for Men Amid Military Conscription Law

The military junta in Myanmar has temporarily suspended issuing permits for men to work abroad, citing the need to verify departure processes and address unspecified issues. This move comes just weeks after the introduction of a military conscription law that has sparked widespread fear and prompted thousands of men to attempt to flee the country.

Why this matters: The suspension of work permits and the introduction of military conscription law have significant implications for the human rights and economic stability of Myanmar, and could lead to a further deterioration of the country's political and social situation. This development also highlights the need for the international community to take a closer look at the junta's actions and consider taking measures to protect the rights of Myanmar's citizens.

Myanmar has been in a state of turmoil since the military seized power in 2021, leading to massive armed opposition that the junta has struggled to quell. In February, the regime announced it would begin enforcing a law that allows it to call up all men aged 18-35 and women aged 18-27 to serve in the military for at least two years.

Nyunt Win, permanent secretary of the junta's labour ministry, stated, "Those who already got the approval are exempt from this ban. When we will lift it depends on prevailing circumstances. That's all I can say for now." The conscription law has led to a surge in people trying to leave Myanmar, with many fearing forced military service.

An anonymous source who attended a meeting between the junta's labour minister and employment agency officials revealed, "The minister said during the meeting that they would ban men from leaving the country for employment temporarily and that it was an order 'from above'. He also complained that too many youths were leaving the country to avoid the conscription law."

Under the conscription law, those who refuse to enlist face a five-year prison sentence. The regime has already begun summoning its second batch of 5,000 draftees, despite initially announcing it would not call up the first group until after the Thingyan holidays in mid-April. A young man from Ayeyarwady Region expressed his concern, saying, "If all other options are barred, then we are left with only one. The situation is deeply concerning."

Critics argue that the ban on work permits will drive many to leave Myanmar illegally in search of employment, potentially pushing some to join the armed resistance against the junta. The move is seen as an attempt by the military to prevent young men from avoiding conscription by seeking work abroad.

Labour rights activists emphasize that workers in Myanmar are facing extremely low wages, overt coercion, and violations of their rights. Ko Sai Yu Maung, a labour rights activist, stated, "The foremost concern for Myanmar workers today is the dire situation of extremely low wages. With the steep rise in the cost of living, it is putting immense strain on their families' livelihood."

The situation for workers has deteriorated significantly since the coup. Ko Sai Yu Maung added, "Before the coup, we could voice our concerns, though our rights were partially limited. But now, speaking up often costs us our jobs, so nobody speaks out anymore." Employers are taking advantage of the political instability to further exploit workers, with some even resorting to armed personnel to settle disputes.

The suspension of work permits for men, coupled with the military conscription law, has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty in Myanmar. The country's ongoing struggle with political instability and economic challenges puts the rights and well-being of workers at risk. The international community must closely monitor the situation and support efforts to protect the rights of Myanmar's citizens in the face of ongoing oppression by the military junta.

Key Takeaways

• Myanmar's military junta suspends work permits for men, citing verification and unspecified issues.
• New military conscription law sparks fear, prompting thousands to attempt to flee the country.
• Men aged 18-35 and women aged 18-27 can be called up for 2-year military service, with 5-year prison sentence for refusal.
• Ban on work permits may drive men to leave illegally, potentially joining armed resistance against the junta.
• Labour rights activists warn of extreme exploitation, low wages, and violations of workers' rights in Myanmar.