Abstract

• Labour disputes, including concerns such as unhealthy workplaces, unprotected facilities, and equipment, pose pervasive challenges shared by nations worldwide. Recognizing the gravity of these issues, Myanmar and Thailand have dedicated substantial efforts to establish effective mechanisms for dispute resolution and ensure decent working conditions. This study delves into the occupational safety regulations of both countries, focusing on Myanmar's Labour Dispute Settlement Law (LDSL) enacted in 2012 and Thailand's Labour Protection Act (LPA) amended in 2019. The study begins with an exploration of Myanmar's LDSL, dissecting its multi-level framework designed to address disputes between employers and workers. Particular emphasis is placed on the challenges within Myanmar, highlighting the necessity to clarify and streamline resolutions for both individual and collective disputes. Shifting to Thailand, the research navigates through the amendments made to the LPA in 2019. This pivotal Thailand legislation serves as a robust instrument aimed at resolving labor disputes, fortifying worker protection, and ensuring overall well-being. The LPA imposes significant penalties on non-compliant employers, underscoring a commitment to fostering equitable work environments. Both countries grapple with challenges in achieving optimal fairness and equity, reflecting the complexities of evolving labor landscapes and distinct socio-economic contexts. By examining the occupational safety regulations and dispute resolution mechanisms in Myanmar and Thailand, this study contributes valuable insights to the ongoing efforts in both countries to create conducive working conditions and establish a framework for just and harmonized labor practices.