International Labour Day 2025: Date, History, Significance and This Year’s Theme

International Labour Day 2025 will be observed on Thursday, 1 May. Also known as International Workers' Day, it is marked every year on May 1 across the world. The day recognises the contribution of workers and aims to promote awareness about their rights. It is also a reminder of the ongoing need to improve working conditions and ensure fair treatment at workplaces.

The theme for International Labour Day 2025 is ‘Safety and Health of Workers’, highlighting the importance of ensuring safe and healthy environments for employees in all sectors.

History of International Labour Day

The origin of International Labour Day goes back to the labour movement in the United States in the late 19th century. On May 1, 1886, American workers organised a strike demanding an eight-hour workday. During one such protest in Chicago, a violent clash occurred between police and workers at Haymarket Square, leading to the deaths of several people. This incident is now known as the Haymarket Affair.

Although the movement started in the US, it inspired worker struggles across the world and led to the establishment of May 1 as International Labour Day in many countries. Ironically, the US and Canada do not observe Labour Day on May 1 but celebrate it on the first Monday of September.

Significance of Labour Day

Labour Day is an important occasion to acknowledge the role of workers in building economies and societies. It also provides a platform to raise awareness about workers' rights, including the right to fair wages, safe workplaces, and dignity at work.

The day is also an opportunity to review and continue the efforts made by trade unions, organisations, and governments to improve labour standards. It urges all stakeholders to address issues like exploitation, unsafe working conditions, and lack of social protection for workers.

Celebrations Around the World

In many countries, Labour Day is a public holiday. Governments, labour unions, and other groups organise rallies, campaigns, and events to mark the occasion. Posters and banners are often used to highlight messages about workers' rights and welfare.

India held its first Labour Day celebration in Chennai (then Madras) in 1923, led by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan. In India, May 1 also marks Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Day, commemorating the formation of the two states in 1960.

More than 80 countries around the world observe Labour Day on May 1. Countries such as South Africa, China, Tunisia, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe observe it as a national holiday.