THE Confederation of Trade Unions of Myanmar (CTUM) called for sanctions against the country’s military junta today as it bids to restore democracy in the country.

Union leader Khaing Zar reiterated the demand of the 16-member Labour Alliance which represents Myanmar’s trade union movement. It aims to isolate the regime which came to power in a coup on February 1.

“There are no trade union rights without political freedom,” she said. “Our unions cannot operate. Many of our leaders have been arrested or are in hiding after arrest warrants were issued.