ISLAMABAD: International Workers’ Day is being observed across Pakistan and many parts of the world today, with the government announcing a public holiday and various events highlighting the rights and contributions of workers.
The day commemorates the historic labour movement of 1886 in Chicago, where workers protested against exploitation and demanded fair working hours. The demonstrations turned violent when police opened fire, resulting in casualties and later executions of labour activists.
In Pakistan, Labour Day has been officially observed since 1973, during the tenure of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Each year, the day is marked with rallies, seminars, and conferences aimed at raising awareness about workers’ rights and welfare.
Ceremonies are being held in major cities, while trade unions and civil society organizations are calling for better wages, safer working conditions, and stronger labour protections.
Despite the observance, many labourers continue their daily work due to economic constraints. Workers across different regions have urged the government to move beyond symbolic gestures and provide tangible relief to improve their living standards.
The day concludes with renewed commitments from stakeholders to work toward improving the socio-economic conditions of the labour class.
