By Ma Ma - Feb 05, 2025
Many workers are considering returning to their hometowns as both men and women are being pressured to register for military service.
Labor activists have warned that skilled workers in domestic industries, factories, and workplaces could become scarce due to this.
Yangon’s industrial zones rely heavily on migrant workers, but concerns over conscription have increased, leading to a growing number of workers wanting to return home.
"I'm mentally exhausted. They came to our dormitory to collect guest registration lists, but they didn’t explain why. It makes me worried. Now that they say women will also be conscripted, my sisters and female relatives will all be included. My mother has already asked me to come home. But the problem is, what will I do for a living if I return? Life here isn’t easy, but at least my sisters and I can earn together and send money home. I’ll have no income, and that worries me if I return. At the same time, staying here also makes me anxious. To be honest, I want to go back," said a factory worker.
Authorities are reportedly collecting military registration lists through ward administrators, and as news spreads that women will also be drafted, concerns among female workers are growing.
Additionally, families residing under Household Registration Form 66 have been informed that they may have to pay a monthly fee of 10,000 MMK as part of female conscription preparations, according to residents in East Dagon Township.
"My husband drives a motorcycle taxi, and I work in a factory. We left our child with my mother while we both earn a living. Now, my husband is planning to sell his motorbike and return to our hometown since my husband is within the eligible age for conscription. I will also leave my job and return with him. Many of my coworkers are also worried, but they can’t just quit their jobs immediately," said another factory worker.
Although the Military Council has stated that women have not yet been officially called for military service, families remain deeply concerned.
It could lead to a skilled labor shortage, according to some factory employees if a large number of migrant workers return to their hometowns.
