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Global Union Day of Action for Myanmar

“NUPGE is in solidarity with the people of Myanmar. We join the calls for an end to the military violence, for the release of imprisoned trade unionists, and for the respect of human rights.” — Larry Brown, NUPGE President

Ottawa (13 Sept. 2021) — Trade unions in Myanmar need our help. They are seeking support to stop the military-led State Administration Council (SAC) from gaining recognition at the upcoming UN General Assembly and to instead have the National Unity Government (NUG) recognized as the legitimate government.

There will be a Global Union Day of Action for Myanmar on September 15, the International Day of Democracy. In coordination with the Council of Global Unions, Public Services International (PSI), of which NUPGE is an affiliate, is urging us all to act.

Support the growing movement

Unions in Myanmar successfully campaigned to reject the credentials of the SAC military at the International Labour Organization (ILO) in June and adopted the ILO Resolution for a return to democracy and respect for fundamental rights in Myanmar. 

The Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) and the Myanmar Labour Alliance, including the Confederation of Trade Unions in Myanmar (CTUM), and health workers supported by PSI affiliates are calling for a global #AcceptNUG campaign.

Action from workers and unions around the world can help amplify the movement in Myanmar. 

How to take action

Here are some ways to take action:

  1. Send letters to your elected officials calling for Canada to recognize the NUG at the UN General Assembly.
  2. Send solidarity messages to the striking workers in Myanmar. More details, including sample letters and messages, can be found on the PSI website.
  3. Organize a campaign to promote NUG recognition and share your activities on social media using the hashtags #Workers4Myanmar #AcceptNUG.
  4. Sign the petition for recognition of the NUG at the UN General Assembly. The petition is available online.

NUPGE solidarity with workers, unions in Myanmar

“NUPGE is in solidarity with the people of Myanmar,” said Larry Brown, NUPGE President. “We join the calls for an end to the military violence, for the release of imprisoned trade unionists, and for respect of human rights.”