Gold & gem mining in Myanmar

The western margin of the Shan Plateau in eastern Myanmar is rich in jade, gemstones such as rubies and emeralds, and gold. In common with other developing countries, working conditions in Myanmar gold mines are poor, but the scale of disregard for workers’ health, safety and human rights at these mines is remarkable.

There is little to no protection against falling rocks, gases in the subsurface, the pervasive dust, >35°C temperatures or malaria (a 40% infection rate is typical). Tools are rudimentary and most rock is broken, sorted and transported by hand. Wages for mine workers are typically from 5000 Kyat (about $5) per month to 1000 Kyat (about $1) per day.