Every year on May 1st, countries across the globe come together to commemorate International Labour Day — also known as International Workers Day. It is more than just a public holiday; it’s a celebration of the working class, a remembrance of historic struggles, and a reflection on the ongoing challenges that workers face worldwide. As we approach International Labour Day 2025, it’s an opportune moment to not only honour global traditions but also evaluate the condition of the modern workforce — especially in countries like India, where labour continues to form the backbone of the economy.
The Origins of International Labour Day
International Labour Day has its roots in the labour union movement in the United States, particularly the Haymarket Affair of 1886 in Chicago. During a peaceful protest advocating for an eight-hour workday, a bomb was detonated, leading to violence and the deaths of several police officers and civilians. This tragic event became a pivotal moment in the global labour rights movement and led to the institutionalization of May 1st as International Workers Day in many parts of the world.
How the World Observes International Labour Day
1. Europe
In countries like Germany, France, Italy, and Spain, International Labour Day 2025 is a major public holiday. Parades, speeches, and peaceful demonstrations are commonplace. Trade unions often organize mass rallies to advocate for workers’ rights, better wages, and safer working conditions. France, in particular, sees strong participation from both political and labour groups.
2. Asia
In China, May Day was once celebrated with massive parades. Today, it’s a national holiday typically marked by travel and leisure, though some cities still hold commemorative events. Japan’s Labour Thanksgiving Day, though observed in November, shares a similar ethos of appreciating workers.
In India, Labour unions organize rallies and speeches across major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. In Tamil Nadu, particularly in Chennai, the day is also known as “May Day” and is marked with parades and the hoisting of the red flag symbolizing labour solidarity.
3. United States & Canada
Ironically, despite being the birthplace of International Workers Day, the United States celebrates Labor Day on the first Monday of September. However, May Day is still acknowledged by many workers’ unions and progressive groups through rallies and awareness campaigns. Canada mirrors this trend with Labour Day also in September, yet observes May 1st in solidarity through smaller events.
4. Africa & Latin America
In countries like South Africa, Nigeria, Brazil, and Argentina, May Day is recognized officially. These observances often include political speeches, cultural programs, and union-led processions that focus on socio-economic issues affecting labour forces.
The Global Workforce in 2025: Where Do We Stand?
As we celebrate International Workers Day 2025, it’s essential to consider the state of the global workforce:
- According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), the global unemployment rate is projected to remain at around 5.2% in 2025, translating to over 191 million people unemployed worldwide. (ILO World Employment and Social Outlook 2024)
- Informal employment remains a major challenge, with nearly 60% of the global workforce engaged in informal work without social protection or legal rights.
- Women and youth continue to face systemic challenges in labour markets. The global gender pay gap still stands at around 20%, and youth unemployment is nearly three times higher than adult unemployment.
- The rise of AI and automation has disrupted job markets. While it has created opportunities in tech and digital services, it has also displaced traditional manufacturing and service jobs, particularly in developing economies.
These statistics underline the continuing relevance of International Labour Day as a moment to advocate for fairer, more inclusive labour systems.
Why International Workers Day Still Matters in 2025
In an increasingly digital, globalized economy, the nature of work is shifting. Remote work, gig economies, and artificial intelligence are redefining roles. Yet, the core concerns of workers—fair wages, job security, safe working conditions, and the right to organize—remain as critical as ever.
International Labour Day 2025 serves as a reminder that despite technological progress, human capital remains the backbone of economies. Celebrating this day is not just about honouring the past—it’s about committing to a more equitable future.
Ways Businesses and Leaders Can Observe International Labour Day
For businesses, especially those in the B2B or HR space, International Workers Day 2025 offers a prime opportunity to:
- Acknowledge and celebrate employees publicly through internal communications, social media, or town halls.
- Support workers’ rights by aligning CSR initiatives with local or global labour causes.
- Educate and empower employees through workshops or seminars on rights at work, mental health, or financial literacy.
- Promote fair labour practices across the supply chain and encourage partner compliance.
These actions not only boost employee morale but also enhance a company’s reputation as a socially responsible organization.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action
The challenges faced by the global workforce today—economic uncertainty, climate change, digital transformation—demand a united and inclusive response. International Labour Day 2025 is more than a commemoration. It’s a clarion call to governments, corporations, and citizens alike to prioritize the dignity of labour and the well-being of workers everywhere.
As you mark International Workers Day 2025, consider how your organization or community can contribute to this global cause. Because at the heart of every thriving economy is a worker whose rights, efforts, and humanity deserve recognition—not just on May 1st, but every single day.
