Child Rights in Myanmar 

Despite considerable progress since its economic and political transition prior to the current turmoil, 55% of children in Myanmar still live in poverty. And an estimated 460,000 children affected by conflicts or natural disasters require humanitarian assistance. Many children and communities still struggle to access basic services in health, education, water and sanitation and child protections. Myanmar has one of the highest rates of child labour in the world. 

About a quarter of children aged 10 to 17 years are in the labour force and a total of 9.3% of children aged 5 to 17 years are engaged in child labour, of which 5% are in hazardous work. As with many other sourcing markets, women make up a large portion (approx. 90%) of the workforce in Myanmar’s garment industry.

Child labour on the ground in Myanmar is pervasive and takes different forms. Children are reported to work at an early age or in dangerous conditions in food-processing, light-manufacturing industries, and family agricultural activities among others. Although child labour in the factory environment is less visible compared to other sectors, children are frequently found working in factories, especially for sub-contractors and suppliers. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the vulnerabilities of workers and is creating increased risks of child labour as a result of reduced family income, reduced access to education due to school closures and increased labour shortages.