World Labour Day being observed today

Labour day is being observed across the world including Pakistan on Wednesday (today) to highlight sacrifices and rights of labourers

The theme of this year Labour Day is “Uniting Workers for Social and Economic Advancement”.

Labour unions will organize seminars, rallies and parades where union leaders will throw light on the importance of Labour Day.

Pakistan’s first labour policy was devised in 1972, in which May 1 was declared an official holiday.

This policy also formulated the creation of the Social Security Network, Old Age Benefit Schemes and Workers Welfare Fund.

Pakistan’s constitution also contains various provisions and articles about labour rights.

The day was first proposed in the late 19th century by trade unionists as the labour movement gained significance. In 1894, the United States Congress unanimously voted to approve legislation to make Labour Day a national holiday which was signed by President Grover Cleveland. It is celebrated in more than 80 countries around the world.

However, many countries such as the United States and Canada celebrate the day on the first Monday of September.