Tom Harkin: “the people of Burma continue to suffer at the hands of the world's most brutal military dictatorship which cynically…”

“the people of Burma continue to suffer at the hands of the world's most brutal military dictatorship which cynically calls itself the State Peace and Development Council, (SPDC). Now more than ever, as a nation committed to internationally-recognized human rights and worker rights, democracy, and freedom, America must heed the call of the International Labor Organization, (ILO), and support stronger, coordinated multilateral actions against Burma's repressive regime. In the face of overwhelming evidence of continued, systematic use of forced labor, including forced child labor in Burma, we must do all we can to deny any material support to the military dictators who rule that country with an iron fist. Furthermore, there is no clear and tangible evidence that the latest informal, closed-door dialogue between the Burmese generals on one side and Aung San Suu Kyi and the other duly-elected leaders of the pro-democracy movement on the other side is bearing fruit. Therefore, we must demonstrate anew to the Burmese people our recognition of their nightmarish plight as well as our support for their noble struggle to achieve democratic governance.”