May Day 2025: Honoring Workers’ Rights and Celebrating International Labour Day

May Day 2025

May Day 2025: Honoring Workers’ Rights and Celebrating International Labour Day

Happy May Day 2025; Solidarity forever!

May Day 2025, also known as Labour Day or International Workers’ Day, is celebrated across the world on May 1st. It is a day to honor the efforts, struggles, and achievements of workers who have contributed to building modern societies.

First observed in the late 19th century, May Day emerged from the fight for fair working conditions, especially the demand for an eight-hour workday. The spirit of May Day still resonates today as a symbol of unity, strength, and the ongoing fight for workers’ rights globally.

In Bangladesh and many other countries, workers play a vital role in driving progress across sectors like agriculture, industry, and services. From the garment factories in Dhaka to the smallholder farms in rural villages, the labor of millions fuels our economy and communities.

As we celebrate International Labour Day 2025, it is essential to reflect on how far we have come — and how much work remains. Despite many victories, challenges like fair wages, workplace safety, gender equality, and social protection are still urgent issues for workers everywhere.

This year, May Day reminds us to:

  • Stand in solidarity with workers everywhere
  • Support policies that protect and empower labor
  • Recognize the value of every job, big or small
  • Promote sustainability and human rights in all industries

In Bangladesh, the significance of May Day is even deeper. Our history is filled with examples of workers standing up for their rights under difficult circumstances. The resilience of our workers has been a key force behind national development and continues to inspire new generations.

As someone who works closely in community development and social change, I believe true progress must always center around human dignity. Sustainable development is only possible when workers are protected, respected, and given opportunities to thrive.

Let’s celebrate May Day 2025 not just with words, but with action — building systems that value every worker’s contribution.

Kazi Mahir Tajwar

Kazi Mahir Tajwar – Development enthusiast with academic roots in Governance & Development Studies and Geography & Environment; driving change.