Inspection of Labour Camps in Mandalay Region by U Kyaw Myint, Member of the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission

Inspection of Labour Camps in Mandalay Region by U Kyaw Myint, Member of the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission

   On 14 May 2025, a monitoring team led by U Kyaw Myint, a member of the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission, conducted an inspection of Htone Bo Male Labour Camps (1) and (2) under the Department of Prisons, in Pyin Oo Lwin Township, Mandalay Region, in accordance with Sections 43 and 44 of the Commission Law. On 15 May 2025, the inspection continued at Htone Bo (Female) Labour Camp in Pyin Oo Lwin Township and the 24-Mile Labour Camp under the Department of Prisons in Pyin Oo Lwin Township.

   During the inspections, the responsible officials of each labour camp made presentation on administrative and logistical operations. In response to the Commission member’s inquiry about any casualties or damages caused by the major earthquake in Mandalay in March, the officials and prisoners reported that there were no fatalities or injuries, and only minor structural damage was caused.

   During the visits, the team gathered prisoners in front of their dormitories and held discussions with them. The Commission member inquired into the minimum standard entitlements for prisoners, including conditions related to accommodation and food, access to healthcare services, availability of clean drinking and utility water, visitation rights with family members, access to prison-issued supplies, provision of necessary personal items, opportunities for physical exercise to promote well-being, workplace safety measures, potential discriminatory practices in work assignments, and whether any form of abuse or ill-treatment occurred. Additionally, 13 prisoners who requested private interviews were met separately, and their statements were recorded.

   The Commission's inspection team also inspected various facilities within the labour camps, including dormitories, clinics, libraries, kitchens, dining room, food storage, water purifier, and water sanitation system. the Commission also donated educational and informative books for the benefit of the prisoners.

   The MNHRC will send recommendations to the relevant department for necessary action based on the findings during inspection.

Myanmar National Human Rights Commission