Labour Day
Labour Day is a public holiday in Pakistan marked by rallies, marches, parades, labor/union meetings and organized street demonstrations. It is sometimes referred to as May Day and is held annually on May 1.
Is Labour Day a public holiday?
Labour Day is a national holiday. It is a day off for the general population and schools and most businesses are closed.
Labour Day in Pakistan
When is Labour Day 2023?
May 1, 2023 Pakistan Mon, May 1, 2023 Add to Calendar
This international holiday is celebrated on May 1. It is most often associated as a reminder of the achievements of the labour movement. The holiday may also be known as International Workers' Day or May Day and is marked as a public holiday in more than 80 countries.
What do people do?
Trade unions across Pakistan organize seminars, rallies and parades where union leaders give speeches highlighting the history of Labour Day and its significance. Workers and unions organize street marches, showing solidarity with workers around the world.
Pakistan is a developing country but the current scenario has improved compared to previous times. However, workers still do not have as many rights as workers in more developed/industrialized countries. Many organized street demonstrations take place on Labour Day, where workers and unions protest labour repression and demand more rights, better wages and benefits.
Public life:
Labour Day is a public holiday in Pakistan on May 1. All government and non-government organizations, factories and educational institutions remain closed. Workers may volunteer to work on Labour Day, with or without payment above normal wages.
Public transport may be less frequent on some routes. Those wishing to travel by public transport in Pakistan during Labour Day should check with local transport authorities before travelling. Many important avenues and streets are blocked off for Labour Day parades and processions. Traffic jams can therefore occur on certain routes at certain times of the day.
Background:
Pakistan's first labour policy was drafted in 1972 when May 1 was declared an official holiday. The policy also formulated the creation of a social security net, old-age benefit systems and a workers' social security fund. The Constitution of Pakistan also contains various provisions and articles on labour rights.
It is important to note that Pakistan became a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) right after its independence in 1947. The ILO is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) that promotes social justice and universally recognized human and social rights.