Islamabad (PNP)
Labour Day is being observed today across Pakistan and the globe as a symbol of solidarity with the working class. While it is officially a public holiday meant to honor the contributions and rights of labourers, many daily wage workers in Pakistan continue to roam the streets in search of work, driven by the ever-increasing burden of inflation, unemployment, and insufficient wages.
According to Express News, despite the significance of May 1 as a day of rest and recognition for workers, the ground realities for many in Pakistan paint a starkly different picture. The rising cost of living, job insecurity, and lack of fair compensation have left countless labourers with little choice but to ignore the holiday and strive to earn a livelihood.
Labourers Seek Work
In major cities including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta, labourers could be seen standing at traditional pick-up points, waiting for contractors or employers to offer them a day’s wage. For these hardworking individuals, there is no holiday. Instead, there is a relentless struggle to feed their families and keep a roof over their heads.
Many of these workers expressed frustration and sadness over being forgotten by the very society that celebrates them once a year. They criticized the widening economic gap and the lack of meaningful reforms that could truly improve their lives.
History of Labour Day in Pakistan
Labour Day was first officially recognized in Pakistan in 1973 under the government of Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Since then, it has been observed annually on May 1 to honor the sacrifices and achievements of workers. The day commemorates the historical labour movement and serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting workers’ rights.
Each year, the day is marked by rallies, seminars, conferences, and public statements by political leaders and labour unions. Yet, many argue that these symbolic gestures have little impact unless followed by tangible policy actions.
PM Reaffirms Commitment to Workers’ Rights
On the occasion of Labour Day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued a statement reiterating his government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of the labour force.
“The labour force of Pakistan is the backbone of our economy, and we reaffirm our dedication to ensuring their safety, dignity, and prosperity,” the Prime Minister said.
He emphasized that the Constitution of Pakistan enshrines the fundamental rights of workers, including the right to fair wages, safe working conditions, and social protection. The Prime Minister highlighted that recent legislation and administrative reforms have been introduced to strengthen these protections.
He also pointed to Pakistan’s ratification of international conventions, including the Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention and the Maritime Labour Convention, as a sign of the country’s commitment to labour rights. “Every worker in the country now benefits from the National Occupational Safety and Health Policy,” he added.
The Prime Minister called upon all stakeholders—including employers, civil society, and policymakers—to contribute to creating an environment where labourers can secure decent employment and lead dignified lives.
Interior Minister Pays Tribute to the Workers
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also issued a message on Labour Day, offering tribute to the hardworking men and women who form the foundation of the country’s economy.
“May 1 is a day that commemorates the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of our working class,” said the Minister. “It reminds us of the pivotal role labourers play in building and sustaining our nation.”
Naqvi stressed that the economy relies heavily on the halal earnings and dedication of daily wage workers, factory labourers, construction workers, and those involved in agriculture and services. He affirmed that the government will continue to take meaningful steps to protect the rights of workers and improve their living standards.
Challenges Facing the Working Class
Despite the official statements, the reality remains grim for many labourers in Pakistan. Rising inflation has significantly eroded the purchasing power of daily wage earners. The cost of basic necessities, including food, fuel, and rent, has skyrocketed, while wages have remained stagnant or even decreased in some sectors.
Furthermore, informal labour makes up a large part of Pakistan’s economy, and many of these workers are not covered by labour laws or social security systems. This leaves them vulnerable to exploitation, unsafe working conditions, and sudden loss of income.
Labour union leaders have called for the implementation of a national minimum wage policy, expansion of health and safety regulations, and better access to education and healthcare for workers’ families.
Symbolic Celebrations vs. Real Progress
Across the country, various events are being held today to mark Labour Day. These include seminars discussing workers’ rights, rallies organized by trade unions, and public awareness campaigns led by NGOs and student groups.
However, many labour rights advocates argue that such events, while important, are not enough. “It’s easy to deliver speeches and post messages on social media, but what workers need are better laws, effective enforcement, and sincere political will,” said a union leader in Karachi.
Several workers interviewed by local media expressed skepticism about the long-term impact of Labour Day commemorations. “What’s the use of a holiday if we can’t afford to rest?” said one labourer waiting for work in Lahore. “My children need food today, not promises.”
The Way Forward
Experts suggest that in order to meaningfully improve the conditions of workers in Pakistan, a multi-pronged approach is required. This includes increasing the minimum wage in line with inflation, formalizing the informal sector, enhancing workplace safety, and ensuring access to social security for all labourers.
Moreover, vocational training and education programs could help workers transition to higher-skilled and better-paying jobs. Support for women workers, especially in rural areas, and enforcement against child labour also remain critical areas in need of attention.
On this Labour Day, while the state honors its workers with public holidays and ceremonial messages, the everyday struggles of the working class continue. For many, the hope is that these acknowledgments will one day translate into real change—when a labourer can truly celebrate the day with dignity, security, and peace of mind.
