International Labour Day 2025: Know History, Significance And More

International Labour Day, also known as Labour Day in some countries, is celebrated on May 1st to honour the contributions and achievements of workers worldwide. 

The day is marked by various events, including rallies, marches, and discussions, highlighting the ongoing struggles and triumphs of workers globally. International Labour Day originated from the US labour movement in the late 19th century. 

May 1st commemorates the 1886 nationwide strike for an 8-hour workday, marked by the Haymarket Affair in Chicago, a tragic event that turned violent, resulting in loss of life, but the rally turned violent when a bomb exploded, causing casualties among police and protesters. 

Labour Day has become a global observance, with millions participating in marches and rallies to honor workers' contributions and advocate for their rights, highlighting progress and ongoing struggles in labor rights. 

Labour Day recognises workers' hard work and contributions to nation-building, educating them about their rights, and protecting them from exploitation. It promotes dignity and rights for all workers, regardless of occupation or background. 

Labour Day is a national holiday in many countries, including South Africa, Tunisia, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and China. On May 1st, various events, seminars, rallies, and awareness campaigns are organized to highlight workers' achievements, contributions, and rights. 

Labour Day inspires efforts to improve working conditions, enhance worker welfare, promote fair labor practices, and support worker progress and development. Its goal is to promote workers' dignity and rights through better labor practices and policies, ultimately driving progress and welfare for workers.