Update on the Solidarity of Trade Unions Myanmar's current situation
Today marks the 100th day of arbitrary arrest and detention of the Solidarity of Trade Unions Myanmar (STUM) members since 28 July 2025.
STUM leader Daw Myo Aye was released from Insein Prison on 20 October 2025. Her situation remains precarious. She is required to post bail at the Shwepyithar Township Court for Article 5 (1) (f) and (g) of 1961 Myanmar Habitual Offenders Restriction Act. A bond of 6 million MMK (2860 USD) was posted on her behalf for her conditional release.
Daw Myo Aye standing up for workers during an action early 2025
Furthermore, under Sections 40 and 41 of the 2022 Registration of Associations Law, seized IT devices (including a mobile phone) had to be retrieved by posting a separate bond of 60 million MMK (28600 USD) with two guarantors. The court issued an injunction prohibiting the sale, pawning, or destruction of data on these devices. The bail conditions and seizure of STUM’s properties is a huge blow to STUM’s operations, undermining independent trade unions’ capabilities to monitor and protect labour rights in Myanmar.
Daw Myo Aye finds it extremely difficult to accept this conditional release, as it prohibits her right to organise.
We will continue to work collectively with all partners to secure the release of the nine members who remain detained in Insein Prison.
We call for the immediate release of other labour rights activists and all individuals who have been arrested and detained for their activities, including Daw Myo Aye’s daughter, Thin Htet San, and other members of the Solidarity Trade Union of Myanmar: Thin Htet San (F), 27 years, Myint Myint Khaing (F), 36 years, Su Myat Nwe (F), 26 years, Thiha Tun (M), 42 years, Zaw Htike (M), 34 years, Zaw San Naing (M) 30 years, Kyaw Thant Naing ((M), 37 years, Hay Mhan Oo (F), 22 years, June Two Maung (F), 39 years old.
STUM will never abandon its mission to serve the workers, and to build a society where workers could live in dignity.
Solidarity of Trade Unions Myanmar (STUM)
In solidarity,
Clean Clothes Campaign
Just Associates (JASS)
Asia Pacific Forum on Women, Law and Development (APWLD)