The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) is appalled at the seizing of power by the military in Myanmar and
will do all within its power to stop the coup succeeding, ensure the release of those detained and bring an end to the
violence and harassment of the people of Myanmar.
The perpetrators of the coup must be exposed and isolated, and trade unions around the world are planning solidarity
actions at 20:00 Myanmar time, 11 February, to coincide with the daily ‘noise barrage’ of people in Myanmar.
Sharan Burrow, ITUC General Secretary, said: “We are demanding that all governments stand together and not recognise or
appease the military takeover.
“Myanmar’s seat at the United Nations must be vacated, the UN Security Council must take action and we need an urgent
special session of the UN Human Rights Council.
“The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) must act to fulfil the democracy and human rights commitments in its
charter. As a first step, sanctions should be targeted at the military leaders, including immediate financial sanctions
that focus on the military’s business interests.
“All governments need to trace supply chains of military-run companies to ensure full and complete application of these
sanctions.
“Of course, all military cooperation with Myanmar must cease immediately with a ban on weapons exports to the country.
All lobby firms employed by Myanmar’s military should be exposed and held to account by governments.
“We need immediate support and assistance for all refugees fleeing persecution by Myanmar’s military, and diplomatic
staff in foreign countries must be protected.
“International companies should provide support to workers where operations are curtailed and give support and
protection to workers protesting the coup.
“We stand in solidarity with Myanmar’s workers and with the people of Myanmar and pay tribute to those brave, working
people taking action to reject the military takeover.
“After 30 years of military dictatorship, we pledge to stand united with the people of Myanmar to ensure that the
people’s vote is respected and that all those who have been democratically elected can form a legitimate government.”