Lessons and Reflections from the Myanmar Union Movement’s Struggle for Democracy 

Date: Friday 24 July 
Time: 10:00am – 10:50am 
Location: Fringe Room 1 
Format: Panel discussion

Organisation: ACTU and APHEDA 

Five years after the 2021 military coup that plunged Myanmar into a devastating polycrisis, the regime continues its quest for global and regional legitimacy.  

But, crucially, the military regime’s efforts are not going unchallenged. The Myanmar labour movement is continuing its long struggle for democracy, led by legendary unionist and veteran of the ‘88 uprising Maung Maung who has travelled to Australia to participate in ALP Fringe ‘26.  

The coup reversed a decade of uneven but significant political and economic progress. It severely damaged the welfare of citizens, violated human and labour rights, and ignited an ongoing civil war. 

Hear from Maung Maung, Australian union leaders supporting his struggle and Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP on how Australia can effectively challenge the rise of authoritarianism in our region. 

Speakers:  

  • Maung Maung, President, Confederation of Trade Unions Myanmar (CTUM) 
  • The Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs 
  • Michele O’Neil, President, Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) 
  • Julia Angrisano, National Secretary, Finance Sector Union (FSU) 

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Authorised by D.Epstein, The Chifley Research Centre, Canberra. ©2023 Chifley Research Centre. This project is supported by the Commonwealth Government through a grant-in-aid program that is administered by the Department of Finance.

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