Myanmar is actively working towards eradicating child labour by focusing on raising awareness among both child labourers and their parents, ensuring they have a comprehensive understanding of the detrimental effects associated with child labour.
The government is currently prioritizing disseminating basic knowledge about child labour, aligning legal amendments with international standards, enhancing the capacity of Union and regional/ state-level departments, establishing duties and obligations, and evaluating the progress of action plans to eliminate child labour in the long term.
Within the ASEAN framework, member states emphasize preventing violence against children and formulating policies to combat forced child labour. Civil society organizations play a crucial role in implementing comprehensive plans to ensure no child is left behind.
Myanmar is urged to actively participate in the regional effort to eliminate child labour, aligning its strategies with other ASEAN countries’ strategies.
Myanmar initiated a five-year action plan spanning from 2019 to 2023, marking the first short-term step to reduce the prevalence of child labour in industrial, manufacturing, and trade sectors. The initial project areas include Kayin and Mon states, Bago, Yangon, and Ayeyawady regions, covering 14 regions and states and Nay Pyi Taw Council Area. Such an effort must contribute to the elimination of child labour in society in any way.
Recognizing World Day against Child Labour on 12 June each year, ceremonies are essential to commemorate the progress made in eliminating child labour. These events involve erecting posters, showcasing child labour elimination activities through media, and distributing pamphlets to educate the public on the do’s and don’ts regarding child labour.
The holistic development of children, encompassing both physical and mental aspects, is critical for shaping the future of the State. Given the direct link between child development and economic growth, socioeconomic improvement, and educational promotion, Myanmar needs to implement a 15-year long-term plan aligned with the national action plan to eliminate child labour. Furthermore, a thorough review of the strengths and weaknesses of action plans is imperative post-2023, when the five-year short-term action plan concludes.
Children are the future strength of the nation and contributors to nation-building endeavours. Ensuring a brighter future for them is not only crucial for their individual well-being but also for the overall development of the nation. Consequently, everyone should cultivate empathy and refrain from actions that could tarnish the future images of these children.
