The nation, along with international community, will observe the historic May Day on Thursday with due respect and solemnity, honouring contributions and sacrifices of workers around the world.
This year’s theme is “Workers and owners united; let’s rebuild this country anew.”
May Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, has been observed globally since 1886 to commemorate the sacrifices made by workers in their struggle for fair labour rights, particularly the eight-hour workday. The movement originated in Chicago, USA, where workers faced brutal police repression and lost their lives at infamous Haymarket affair.
Since then, May 1 has been celebrated in over 80 countries, including Bangladesh, as a national holiday and a symbol of labour solidarity.
It is also marked privately in many other countries. Media outlets are set to publish special features and air programs to highlight the day’s historical and contemporary significance.
May Day has played a pivotal role in reshaping the global labour movement, significantly influencing employer-employee relations. The recognition of this day contributed to reducing the standard workday to eight hours and ushered in major social reforms, diminishing class-based inequality over time.
Although economic and social disparities still exist, the movement that began on May Day laid the foundation for freeing countless workers from systemic oppression and exploitation.
In line with ongoing efforts to improve labour conditions, the interim government has taken a step forward by forming Labour Reform Commission. The 10-member commission, headed by Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed, Executive Director of Bangladesh Institute of Labour Studies (BILS), was established on November 17 to develop reform proposals aimed at safeguarding labour rights and promoting worker welfare.
After engaging in consultations with various stakeholders, the commission submitted its report to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on April 21, presenting its recommendations for comprehensive labour reform.
As the world marks another May Day, spirit of the historic labour movement continues to inspire progress toward dignity, equity and justice for all workers.
SH
