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What is happening in Myanmar? #WhatisHappening-inMyanmar?
Mass protests and police violence have increased daily since the military coup in Myanmar. People need our solidarity and support. An overview of the events and how they affect textile workers and trade unionists.
How did the coup come about?
On 1 February 2021, the military declared a state of emergency and dissolved Parliament. Election fraud was cited as the reason for the coup. However, the state election commission sees no signs of this: The NLD (National League for Democracy) party, which has officially ruled since 2011, won 396 out of 476 seats in parliament, while the military-backed party (USDP) won only 33 seats. For over a month, hundreds of thousands of people in Myanmar's cities have been protesting against the putschists and for the restoration of democracy.
Who is protesting?
With street rallies, strikes and noise protests, the people of Myanmar are resisting the military takeover and calling for international solidarity. Workers from all sectors of the economy join the protests and the Civil Disobedience Movement, including numerous textile workers and trade unionists. According to Union Organizer Andrew Tillett-Saks The seamstresses were the first on the streets and the catalyst of the demonstrations. Many sewers also demonstrate in the factories through the Three-finger symbol or wearing red ribbons.
What are the trade unions demanding?
International trade unions want to weaken the commercial interests of the military. They call on governments and businesses, to end the preferential EU trade status (EBA - Everything But Arms) and financial ties with military-owned companies. The largest trade union in the clothing sector IMFM (Industrial Workers' Federation of Myanmar) calls on all brands investing in Myanmar to condemn the coup and declares that future investments will be at risk under a military dictatorship. At the same time, companies should ensure that no workers are persecuted in any way when participating in protests.
What is the impact of the coup on the clothing industry?
Experts see sanctions imposed by other countries (e.g. Withdrawal of trade agreements) and this Canceling orders by companies a great Danger to Myanmar's textile industry. The Myanmar Times It has already been reported due to the pandemic. Difficult situation in the clothing sector, which will now deteriorate further in the face of political unrest. Factory owners are already planning to move their companies abroad as soon as sanctions following the coup should be implemented.
Who is in danger?
The military is cracking down on the demonstrators. In recent weeks, many peaceful protesters have been injured, including the dead. The military in Myanmar is also targeting leaders of the demonstrations and has Arrest warrants issued against the Vice-President of the IMFM and other trade union leaders. According to reports, the military raids textile workers at night to force information about their leaders.
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