Bangladesh joins the global community today in observing the historic International Labour Day, honoring the rights and sacrifices of the working class.
This year’s theme, "Healthy Workers, Productive Hands, A New Dawn Awaits," underscores the importance of occupational health and labor dignity in building a prosperous nation.
In separate messages, President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman extended their greetings to the labor force.
President Shahabuddin described workers as the "main pillars" of national development. He emphasized that building a "Smart Bangladesh" requires ensuring fair wages, social protection, and a safe working environment. He also noted that the current administration is working toward reforming labor laws to align with international standards.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving living standards and eliminating the wage gap between men and women. Highlighting the contribution of migrant workers, the Premier announced the introduction of ‘Expatriate Cards’ to provide economic protection and streamlined benefits for those working abroad.
Later today, the Prime Minister is scheduled to address a massive workers' rally in Dhaka, organized by the Bangladesh Nationalist Workers' Party.
The Legacy of 1886
May Day commemorates the 1886 Haymarket Riot in Chicago, where workers struck to demand an eight-hour workday. The movement, which faced violent police suppression, eventually led to the global standard of the eight-hour shift and the recognition of labor rights.
In Bangladesh, May Day (International Labour Day) is a public holiday. All government and private offices, as well as industrial units, remain closed, while media outlets are airing special programs to highlight the day's significance.
