Historic May Day is being observed today

Historic May Day is being observed today across the country and around the world with due dignity.

This year’s theme is “Healthy Workers, Productive Hands, A New Dawn Awaits (Sustho Sramik, Karmotho Hat, Ashbe Ebar Nobo Provat).”

The day has been marked globally since 1890 in remembrance of the sacrifices made by workers during the Haymarket movement in Chicago, USA, in their struggle for an eight-hour workday and the protection of labour rights.

On May 1, 1886, and in the days that followed, many workers lost their lives in bomb attacks and police crackdowns while pressing for their demands.

May Day is observed in Bangladesh and worldwide as a symbol of workers’ rights and dignity. Media outlets are publishing special articles and airing programmes highlighting its significance.

The day is a public holiday in around 80 countries, including Bangladesh, and is also privately observed in many others.

Its global recognition has brought significant progress for workers, reshaping employer-worker relations and leading to the establishment of the eight-hour workday. Over time, workers have gained greater recognition and rights, marking a major chapter in social progress.

Although class disparities have not been entirely eliminated, the legacy of May Day has played a key role in reducing oppression and advancing workers’ freedoms.

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

In his message, the President said observing the day with due respect is encouraging and noted that May Day continues to inspire workers worldwide. He also referred to initiatives taken by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman for workers’ welfare and highlighted ongoing government efforts, including labour law reforms, fair wages, social protection, pension systems, and the protection of trade union rights.

The Prime Minister, in his message, stressed that improving workers’ living standards, ensuring fair rights, providing safe working conditions, and upholding their dignity remain top priorities of the government.

He described workers as the main driving force behind national development, adding that industry, agriculture, infrastructure, and economic strength are built on their tireless efforts.