Confederation of Trade Unions Myanmar (CTUM)

About the Confederation of Trade Unions Myanmar (CTUM)

The Confederation of Trade Unions-Myanmar (CTUM) is a national trade union confederation established under the civilian government from 2012 to 2020, in accordance with the 2011-2012 Labour Organisation Law and Rule. Prior to this, the Federation of Trade Unions Burma (FTUB) had been conducting trade union activities since 1991 as an opposition force under the military junta. Following democratic reforms in 2010, FTUB held talks with the government and re-entered Myanmar on 4 September 2011. Since then, trade union groups have been established, with CTUM serving as the backbone of operations.

CTUM operates at multiple levels, including policy engagement at basic, township, regional, federation, national, and global levels. During the previous government’s tripartite mechanism for the Decent Work Country Programme, CTUM actively participated as worker representatives, carrying out labour policies based on ILO provisions and standards. The confederation also provides trade union education to members and workers, focusing on awareness, skill development, and attitude change. Despite limited resources, CTUM has organised 65,000 members over the past decade, with 10% receiving trade union education.

CTUM prioritises dialogue and negotiation in resolving disputes and achieving collective bargaining agreements, using industrial action as a last resort. The confederation upholds trade union values and principles, including Freedom of Assembly and Freedom of Expression, which are central to democracy. Following the 2020 General Election, CTUM recognised the democratic and civilian government and joined the civil disobedience movement to reject the military coup. CTUM now works with the National Unity Government and has withdrawn from all tripartite mechanisms set up by the military dictatorship.

Key Challenges for the Confederation of Trade Unions-Myanmar (CTUM)

CTUM faces significant challenges in maintaining its operations and advancing workers’ rights under the current military dictatorship. The lack of democracy, freedom of assembly, and freedom of expression severely restricts the ability of workers and trade unions to exercise their rights. Despite these obstacles, CTUM continues to work with strike forces for the revolution and participates in the National Unity Consultative Council (NUCC) as part of its political activities.

As a member of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) and its affiliates in Global Union Federations such as BWI, IUF, and IndustriAll, CTUM remains committed to advocating for workers’ rights both nationally and internationally. However, the confederation’s efforts are hindered by limited financial, human, and technological resources, highlighting the need for increased support and solidarity from the global trade union movement.