International Labour Day 2024

International Labour Day 2024

International Labour Day helps us to recognise the contributions of the labours and the working class in development of the society and the country. It also urges the labours to learn about their rights. Labours are often exploited, and it is important that they know their rights to protect themselves.

Labour Day has its origins in the labour union movement, specifically the eight-hour day movement, which advocated eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation, and eight hours for rest. For most countries, Labour Day is synonymous with, or linked with, International Workers' Day, which occurs on 1 May.

International Labour Day or May Day is celebrated every year on May 1 to raise awareness about the contribution and struggles of workers and working class throughout the world. Also known as May Day, May 1 is celebrated to honour the working class and commemorate their struggles for fair wages and better working conditions. On the occasion, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) emphasised the importance of renewing commitment to social justice.

In 1886, a large demonstration happened in America where the labours demanded eight hours of work on a daily basis. However, soon the demonstration went out of hand and in Chicago and lot of people got hurt. This incident came to be known as The Haymarket Affair. This incident marked the start of the International Labour Day. In 1889, a lot of socialist parties in Europe came together and decided to celebrate May 1 as International Labour Day. Since then, the special day has been observed every year on the same day.