Celebrating International Labour Day A Call for Workers’ Rights and Safety

International Labour Day is being observed today to show Support for Workers and Highlight the importance of their Rights. The theme for this Year is ensuring workplace Safety and Health in the Face of Climate Change. This day is a Global reminder to Stand up for Workers’ Rights, fair Wages and Safe Working Conditions.

In Pakistan International Labour Day is a Public Holiday with many Rallies and Demonstrations Organized by trade Unions and Workers’ Groups. These Events aim to Raise awareness about the issues Workers face and Promote better Working Conditions. Despite these Efforts many Workers in Pakistan still live in Poverty struggling to meet their basic Needs. To address this the Government set the Minimum Wage at Rs 32,000 last Year hoping to improve Workers’ Lives.

Pakistan’s Labor Policy first introduced in 1972,made May 1 an Official Holiday. It also Created Programs like Social Security and Benefits for Older Workers to help Protect them as they age. The Country’s Constitution includes Several Sections that Defend Workers’ Rights showing that these issues are important in Pakistan.

International Labour Day has a long History going back to the late 1800s when the labor movement was Growing. Today it’s Celebrated in more than 80 Countries. While the United States and Canada Celebrate it on the first Monday of September, most other countries including Pakistan celebrate it on May 1.

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In his message for Labour Day Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari said it’s important to Respect Worker’s Dignity and  safety. He Pointed out that laborers in Pakistan face many Challenges including inflation, Unemployment and the Effects of Climate Change. He urged Employers to Provide Safe Working Conditions and fair Wages.

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also Expressed his Support for Workers. He said the Government is Committed to improving their lives by focusing on better Housing, Education, Healthcare and Social Security Benefits. He Praised Workers for their hard work and Sacrifices noting that they Play a Crucial role in driving Pakistan’s Progress.