Today, Monday, Pakistan joins the international community in commemorating International Labour Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the vital contributions and enduring struggles of workers around the globe.
Observed on May 1, the occasion highlights the essential role laborers play in driving economic growth and constructing national infrastructure. Across the country, various activities—including seminars and awareness walks—are being held to emphasize the urgent need for fair pay, better workplace conditions, and enhanced safety standards for workers.
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These events are part of a wider international campaign that advocates for workers’ rights and seeks justice for those whose efforts are often overlooked or undervalued.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has also marked May 1 as the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, stressing the global importance of creating safe and healthy workplaces.
This day serves both as a tribute to workers’ accomplishments and a spotlight on the ongoing issues they face—especially in sectors marked by low income and dangerous conditions.
In Pakistan, challenges such as inadequate wages and hazardous job environments continue to affect a significant portion of the workforce. Labour Day stands as a yearly call to action, urging authorities and society to implement lasting improvements in labor rights and protections.
The day also holds historical weight, tracing back to the tragic events of the 1937 Little Steel Strike in Chicago, where police opened fire on peaceful protestors, killing ten workers. This moment remains a powerful symbol of the ongoing fight for labor justice.
