What is the impact of conscription on fish market labour?

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Conscription and Emigration Contribute to Labour Shortages in Yangon's Fish Markets

The introduction of mandatory conscription in Myanmar, following the 2021 military coup, has led a significant number of young men to seek work abroad, thereby impacting the labour pool available for physically demanding jobs such as those in Yangon's fish markets. This outflow of labour, driven by both the desire to avoid military service and the search for better economic opportunities, exacerbates existing challenges within the sector, contributing to a decline in business and affecting the daily operations of markets like Shwe Padauk and San Pya.
Conscription Drives Young Men Abroad

The military's introduction of conscription in 2021, after overthrowing the elected government, has been a primary catalyst for a substantial number of young men leaving Myanmar. This policy has created an environment where avoiding military service becomes a significant consideration for individuals seeking to maintain their freedom and pursue alternative life paths. Consequently, many are choosing to emigrate to find employment in other countries, a trend that directly reduces the available workforce for sectors requiring manual labour within Myanmar.
Emigration Creates Labour Shortages in Physically Demanding Industries

The exodus of young men seeking work abroad, in part to evade conscription, has led to a noticeable strain on industries that rely on physically demanding labour, such as the fish markets of Yangon. These markets, which handle hundreds of thousands of kilograms of fish daily and are crucial to the city's food supply chain, are experiencing a reduction in their workforce. This general labour drain means fewer individuals are available for the gruelling tasks of unloading, sorting, and processing seafood, a situation exacerbated by ongoing conflict in key fishing regions like Rakhine state.
Reduced Workforce Affects Market Operations and Incomes

The diminished availability of workers in Yangon's fish markets has direct consequences on their operational capacity and the livelihoods of those remaining. While the exact percentage of labour shortage is not specified, the departure of workers means that those who continue to work may face increased workloads or longer hours. Furthermore, the reduced supply of fish, partly due to disruptions in traditional fishing grounds and the overall labour deficit, has led to increased prices for commodities. This price hike, coupled with a general decline in sales, has resulted in decreased incomes for seafood dealers and vendors, impacting the economic viability of the markets.

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What is the impact of conscription on fish market labour?

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