The International Labour Conference has voted to lift all remaining International Labour Organisation (ILO) restrictions on Myanmar. The remaining restrictions centred on Myanmar’s use of forced labour.

The ILO restrictions were initially introduced in 1999 and 2000. Based on Article 33 of the ILO Constitution, the restrictions were invoked by the ILO for the first time in its history. Article 33 allows the Governing Body of the ILO to recommend to member States whatever action it may deem necessary to ensure compliance with the recommendations of a Commission of Inquiry. 

The restrictions were introduced after Myanmar failed to act on the recommendations of an ILO Commission of Inquiry. The Commission found that there was abundant evidence that the Myanmar authorities made pervasive use of forced labour.

The Resolution adopted by the Conference recognises the progress made in Myanmar and lifts all ILO restrictions on Myanmar. It calls on ILO member states to provide financial support for the elimination of forced labour and invites the Governing Body to review the situation in Myanmar on issues relating to ILO activities, including freedom of association and the impact of foreign investment on decent working conditions in the country.