Summary of the Myanmar labour force, child labour and school to work transition survey 2015

The key findings indicate that child labour remains a significant issue, especially in rural areas, where many children work in agriculture, forestry, and fishing. The survey found that a considerable percentage of children aged 5-17 were engaged in hazardous work, impacting their education and well-being. Economic hardship, family debt, and limited access to quality education were major drivers of child labour. Additionally, youth unemployment and underemployment were highlighted as critical concerns, with a mismatch between job market demands and skills acquired through education. The report also found that most young workers lack stable employment, with many engaged in informal or low-wage jobs, limiting their career growth opportunities.

Based on these findings, the report recommends policy interventions to strengthen labour laws, expand educational opportunities, and improve vocational training programs. It calls for targeted financial assistance to households affected by poverty to prevent children from entering the workforce at a young age. Furthermore, the report suggests improving data collection mechanisms to monitor child labour trends and ensure effective enforcement of existing labour policies. The study underscores the need for a multi-sectoral approach, involving the government, private sector, and civil society, to create sustainable solutions that protect children’s rights and promote decent employment opportunities for Myanmar’s youth.