EVERY year on May 1, Labour Day is observed across the world to honour the struggles and sacrifices of workers. The origins of this day lie in the historic 19th century Chicago movement during which workers laid down their lives demanding fair working hours and basic rights. Their struggle gave birth to the global recognition of labour rights and the principle of dignity of work. In Pakistan, however, Labour Day has largely been reduced to a symbolic public holiday. Government offices close, and well-paid officials enjoy a day of rest in comfortable surroundings. Ironically, those who are least connected with any kind of manual labour benefit the most from this holiday.

On the other hand, the real workforce of the country — daily wage earners, construction workers, kiln labourers, hotel staff, loaders and street vendors — continue their routine work without a moment of pause. For them, a day without work means a day without income. Many are not even aware of the significance of May 1. That being so, what is there for them to celebrate or observe? Nothing.

This contradiction exposes a deeper structural issue. A large majority of Pakistan’s labour force operates in the informal sector, where labour laws are weakly enforced or entirely absent. There is no guaranteed minimum wage in practice, no social security, no health protection, and certainly no concept of paid leave.

Labour Day, in its true spirit, is not about a holiday; it is about justice. If this day is to have any real meaning, it must translate into tangible benefits for workers. Policies such as double wages for May 1, formal registration of workers, access to health-care, and enforcement of labour protections should be seriously considered.

More importantly, society must shift its mindset. Respect for labour must go beyond slogans and ceremonial speeches. It must be reflected in policies, practices and everyday attitudes. The lesson from Chicago is clear: rights are not given; they are won through struggle, and sustained through justice. Until Pakistan aligns its practices with this principle, Labour Day will always be a holiday for the privileged, and another working day for the workers.

Dr Abdul Qadeer Memon
Naushahro Feroze

Published in Dawn, May 1st, 2026