Historic May Day today

Today, Thursday (May 1), marks the observance of International Workers’ Day, commonly known as May Day—a day dedicated to the rights of working people across the globe. 

On this very day in 1886, workers shed their blood in protest to liberate themselves from long-standing exploitation and deprivation. 

Their sacrifice laid the foundation for a global movement to uphold labor rights, and the day is now commemorated worldwide as May Day.

In nearly 80 countries, including Bangladesh, May Day is observed as a national holiday. In many other countries, it is recognized and celebrated unofficially. 

This year, Bangladesh observes the day under the theme: "Workers and employers united—let's build a new nation together."

May Day's international recognition has brought sweeping changes to the global labor movement. The day carries deep significance for employer-employee relationships, leading to a reduction in daily work hours to eight and ensuring better recognition and dignity for workers across the world. 

Workers have successfully asserted their rights, resulting in a new chapter in the history of global social change. The revolutionary impact of May Day has gradually reduced class-based social inequality, although complete equality remains an ongoing pursuit. Nonetheless, the sacrifices made on this day have significantly empowered working people to break free from oppression.

On this occasion, President Mohammed Shahabuddin, Chief Advisor Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, and BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman have each issued separate messages.

In his message, Chief Advisor Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus emphasized the vital role of May Day in fostering a productive relationship between workers and employers to boost the national economy. 

He stated that this year’s theme, “Workers and employers united—let’s build a new nation together”, is highly relevant for Bangladesh’s sustainable development. He believes that workers and employers complement each other, and their joint efforts are crucial in creating a strong, self-reliant, and prosperous Bangladesh.

Dr. Yunus further noted that the success of Bangladesh’s key sectors—garments, agriculture, industry, construction, transport, and technology—depends on the hard work and intellect of both workers and employers. 

To rebuild the nation, he stressed the importance of unity, mutual respect, and trust. If this cooperative spirit continues, the dream of building a just and equitable Bangladesh—sparked by the mass uprisings of students, workers, and citizens in July-August—can become a reality.

The current interim government has taken initiatives to protect labor rights and ensure workers' welfare by forming a Labor Reform Commission. On November 17, a 10-member commission was established, headed by Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed, Executive Director of the Bangladesh Institute of Labour Studies (BILS). The commission consulted with various stakeholders and organizations and submitted its report, along with recommendations, on April 21 to Chief Advisor Dr. Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna.

A circular issued by the Labor Wing of the Ministry of Labor and Employment addresses worker termination, layoffs, and factory operations on May Day. It references the decisions made at the 20th meeting of the Tripartite Consultative Council (TCC) on RMG, held on April 8. It states:

• Workers cannot be terminated or laid off without valid reasons and adherence to labor laws.
• Before any such action, prior clearance must be obtained from the local administration, the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments, the Industrial Police, and the BGMEA.
• Failure to comply with these legal requirements will result in legal action against the employer.

Additionally, the circular mandates that all factories and establishments must remain closed on May Day. Any factory found operating on this day will face legal action. The directive, signed by Deputy Secretary Mohammad Shamsul Islam, is available on the ministry’s website.

Historically, on May 1, 1886, workers in Chicago, USA, rallied at Haymarket Square demanding fair wages and an 8-hour workday. What began as a peaceful protest turned tragic when police opened fire on the demonstrators, killing at least 10 workers. 

The protest, involving over 185,000 construction workers and thousands more waving red flags, soon transformed into a global movement for labor rights.

The Haymarket Massacre became a turning point that inspired global solidarity among workers. The U.S. government eventually recognized the 8-hour workday under pressure from mass protests. Since then, May 1 has been observed as International Workers’ Day.

The 1886 uprising was officially recognized on July 14, 1889, at the Second International Workers' Congress in Paris, which declared May 1 as International Workers’ Solidarity Day. Starting from 1890, the day has been commemorated annually in various countries around the world as May Day.