4
4.8
Highlight impacts on investment climate: Societal discrimination and exclusion are
not unique to Myanmar. However, if discrimination and exclusion becomes more
entrenched and overt, it will undermine ongoing political and economic reforms.
Businesses, collectively or individually, should highlight how the negative impacts of
discrimination and inter-communal violence, and an inadequate response from the
Government on protecting those at risk, can harm the investment climate.
Design ICTs for vulnerability and accountability: As outlined in Chapter 3 on
sector-level impacts, there are more opportunities for positive impact from the ICT
sector than potentially any other industry developing within Myanmar’s fast moving
landscape. The nature of the ICT sector – able to bridge long distances affordably
and in real time – positions it to combat exclusion and vulnerability. For example, ICT
can increase access to doctors and medical services for the elderly, disabled or
displaced who are in desperate need of healthcare but often unable to travel or afford
it; provide people with disabilities with accessible online employment opportunities;
and offer hotlines for groups at risk.
D. Relevant International Standards and Guidance on
Groups at Risk
Relevant International Standards:
IFC Performance Standard 2 and Guidance Note – Labour and Working
Conditions
ILO, Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention (No. 111)
UN Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women
UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
Relevant Guidance:
European Commission, “ICT Sector Guide on Implementing the UN Guiding
Principles on Business & Human Rights”
IFC, “Good Practice Note, Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity”
ILO, “Working Conditions of Contract Workers in the Oil & Gas Industry”
ILO, “Disability in the Workplace – Company Practices”
CSR-D, “Guide on Corporate Social Responsibility and Disability” and in
Burmese, MCRB and DRC, “Corporate Social Responsibility and Disability
(CSR-D) – A Guide for Companies in Myanmar”
UNICEF, UN Global Compact, Save the Children, “Children’s Rights and
Business Principles”
UN Global Compact, “Women’s Empowerment Principles”
UN “Inter-Agency Handbook on Housing and Property Restitution for Refugees
and Displaced Persons: Implementing the ‘Pinheiro Principles’”
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CHAPTER 4.8: GROUPS AT RISK
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