Latest News 23-02-2009

Relatives of 54 suffocated Burmese migrant workers receive compensation in Ranong today

Relatives of the 54 Burmese workers who suffocated to death last year in the back of a container truck received compensation from an insurance company in Ranong today. The exchange was monitored by authorities from the Thai and Burmese governments, as well as representatives of the Federated Trade Unions – Burma (FTUB), World Vision, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and other non-government organizations (NGOs)

Migrant workers middle Burma threatening, robbing villagers in Mon State

Migrant workers from upper and middle Burma have been causing trouble in several villages in Mon State through robbery, drunkenness, stealing produce and damaging paddy fields. Villagers have been afraid to protest due to threats of violence from the migrants, who come mostly to find work on rubber plantations, vegetable garden or in the salt industry and small brick factories. Some of the workers are ex-soldiers, say IMNA sources.

Palaung organisations speak out against election

Feb 20, 2009 (DVB)–Palaung political organisations have called on the international community not to endorse the military regime’s 2008 constitution and to oppose the planned 2010 election. -

The role of the media in Burma’s transition to democracy

Htet Aung Kyaw
Feb 20, 2009 (DVB)–In much of Europe, the US, Australia and Japan, media workers are safe and sound. But in Burma, while the military junta is still in power, it is very difficult and dangerous work. -