International Labour Day being observed today

Labour Day or International Workers’ Day is observed annually on May 1 to commemorate the achievements and contributions of the workers to society. The labour plays a significant role in the development of nations.

This day, marked by history and labour demands since the end of the 19th century, has a special meaning, where the entrepreneurial spirit is manifested with great force.

International Labour Day 2024 Theme

International Labour Day, also known as May Day, often addresses current issues and challenges faced by workers globally. Every year, there is an International Labour Day 2024 Theme to celebrate it.

Every year, the theme is announced by international labour organisations like the International Labour Organization (ILO). This year, the focus is on ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate.

Under this theme, they underscore the critical importance of addressing the impacts of climate change on workplace safety and occupational health.

The global temperature rise and extreme weather events become more frequent and severe. As a result, workers across industries face higher risks and challenges.

Under this theme, it is important to highlight the proactive measures to protect workers from climate-related hazards such as heat stress, air pollution, natural disasters, and vector-borne diseases.

Moreover, ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate requires collaboration between employers, governments, trade unions, and other stakeholders.

Employers need to create more resilient work environments for the workers to safeguard the well-being of workers, and build a sustainable future for all.

Rallies and demonstrations are being organised by various trade unions, workers’ organisations and non-governmental organisations on this day to highlight the basic rights of workers.

Most of the labourers in Pakistan live below the poverty line and have to fight tooth and nail to meet their basic needs.

Last year, the government announced that the minimum wage will be Rs 32,000.

Pakistan’s first labour policy was devised in 1972, in which May 1 was declared an official holiday.

President’s message:

The president said the theme for this year’s International Labour Day was to ensure workplace safety and health amidst climate change.

According to a press release, the President stated, “The labourers and the working class in Pakistan are facing unprecedented challenges, such as inflation, rising cost of living, unemployment, and the adverse impacts of climate change.”

PM’s message:

He paid tribute to the enormous sacrifices made by workers who lost their lives fighting for their rights in his speech on Wednesday, International Labour Day.

According to the prime minister, improving occupational safety and health across a range of industries is still our government’s top goal.

PM Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the vital contributions of the labourers who toil day and night in factories, fields, and other places in order to provide for their families and are the main engine of Pakistan’s development.