"Sourcing from Myanmar: Updated ETI Position Statement", 12 May 2022

On 25 March 2022, the International Labour Organization (ILO) established a Commission of Inquiry into the decline of workers' rights in Myanmar since the military coup of February 2021. ETI notes the gravity of such a decision taken by the ILO’s Governing Body...

Unions report that the environment has become increasingly dangerous for them to operate in, have safe communications with their members and negotiate with employers and brand companies to settle workplace labour disputes....

In light of the evidence of the deteriorating situation, the decision of the ILO Governing Body in March 2022, and the impact on workers’ rights reported by trade unions and civil society organisations, ETI believes it is necessary to update its advice to corporate members sourcing from Myanmar.

In August 2021, we called on companies as a matter of urgency to reassess their presence in Myanmar, ensuring that such an assessment is based on the application of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs). This is as important as ever, but given the developments indicated above we now advise that:

• Business refrain from making any additional investments in Myanmar at this time.
• Business continue to meaningfully engage with unions locally and internationally with respect to their presence in Myanmar.

We will continue to conduct an independent study as a matter of urgency which is examining the human rights implications of doing business in Myanmar in line with the UNGPs and OECD guidelines.