Reforming Labour Markets in Burma (Myanmar)
Programs and partnerships
Lead institution(s)
Summary
As Burma (Myanmar) continues its transition toward multi-party democracy and a market economy, developing an efficient and equitable labour market will be essential. This project aims to provide policymakers and stakeholders evidence to support this development.Read more
As Burma (Myanmar) continues its transition toward multi-party democracy and a market economy, developing an efficient and equitable labour market will be essential. This project aims to provide policymakers and stakeholders evidence to support this development. Increasing employment in key sectors One of the Burmese government's main goals is economic growth through private sector development and increased foreign direct investment. Creating jobs requires private sector expansion, especially in labour-intensive sectors where the country has a comparative advantage, such as garments and food processing. Productivity, social security, wages Researchers will survey employer and employee needs in these sectors to provide the basis for research on productivity, social security, and wage determinants. They will also conduct a comprehensive legal review of labour-related laws and regulations, and a systematic review of labour data. The project will include extensive advocacy and awareness-raising activities. Training to enhance expertise in Burma Burma's largest challenge is lack of capacity on labour research and policy. The project will increase Burmese researchers' skills and knowledge by offering them greater exposure to international experiences through training. It will also provide training to government officials to use evidence in their labour policy discussions. The project builds on recent initiatives between the think tank, the Centre for Economic and Social Development, which is part of the Myanmar Development Resource Institute and the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security. The project will also involve other government stakeholders, including civil society and private sector.