Myanmar Quake Puts 3.5 Million Workers at Risk, ILO Warns

[geovalin]

ILO

 

More than 3.5 million workers in Myanmar face severe disruption to their livelihoods following last month’s powerful earthquake near Mandalay, according to a new report by the International Labour Organization (ILO).

 

The 7.7-magnitude quake struck central Myanmar, a region already burdened by rising poverty and economic instability. Mandalay, the epicentre, had seen steep declines in industrial output and labour force participation even before the disaster.

 

Now, satellite and labour data compiled by the ILO estimate that the quake-hit region could be losing around $36.8 million in wages daily, translating to a staggering $9.6 billion in potential annual income if workers remain unemployed or underemployed.

 

The ILO’s brief urges swift action to address the unfolding crisis. With no national social protection system in place, millions are left exposed. Emergency cash aid is deemed essential, but the ILO also calls for employment programmes focused on debris clearance and rebuilding efforts. These, it insists, must uphold decent work standards and prioritise the most vulnerable, especially in conflict-sensitive areas.

 

“The response must be local, inclusive, and firmly rooted in dignity,” the ILO stated, highlighting the need for engagement with workers' groups, employers’ organisations, and community leaders.

 

The report also underlines the importance of implementing previous ILO recommendations regarding labour rights and protections, warning that long-term recovery hinges on broader reforms.

 

As Myanmar reels from one of its worst natural disasters in recent memory, the report paints a sobering picture—not just of shattered infrastructure, but of livelihoods on the brink.

 

-2025-05-14

 

[Digitalbanana]

5 minutes ago, geovalin said:

following last month’s powerful earthquake near Mandalay,

 

5 minutes ago, geovalin said:

-2025-05-14

The quake was in March, not last month.