May Day Observed Today Honouring Workers’ Rights

Historic May Day today.File photo

International Workers' Day, widely known as May Day, is being observed today across Bangladesh and around the world with due respect, honouring the struggles and contributions of workers.

This year’s theme, “Healthy Workers, Productive Hands, A New Dawn Awaits,” highlights the importance of workers’ well-being in driving economic and social progress.

The day traces its origins to the Haymarket Affair in Chicago, where workers protesting for an eight-hour workday faced violent repression. Since 1890, May Day has been observed globally to commemorate those sacrifices and to advance labour rights.

In Bangladesh and many other countries, the day is marked by rallies, discussions and programmes focusing on workers’ rights, safety and welfare. It is also a public holiday in more than 80 countries.

Over the decades, the movement inspired by May Day has led to major reforms, including the establishment of the eight-hour workday and greater recognition of workers’ rights worldwide. While significant progress has been made, challenges such as fair wages, safe working conditions and social protection remain key concerns.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman extended greetings to workers on the occasion.

In his message, the president said May Day continues to inspire workers globally and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to labour welfare through reforms, fair wages and protection of trade union rights.

The prime minister emphasised that workers are the backbone of national development, noting that industry, agriculture and infrastructure depend on their efforts. He said ensuring workers’ rights, improving living standards and providing safe working conditions remain top priorities.

As the world marks the day, renewed attention is being placed on strengthening labour rights and ensuring dignity and protection for workers in an evolving global economy.