International Labour Day 2025, also known as International Workers' Day, will be celebrated on Thursday, 1st May 2025. This day is also known as May Day in many countries. It is dedicated to honouring the efforts, achievements, and rights of workers. For UPSC aspirants, this day is important for understanding labour movements, social justice, and government policies related to labour welfare.
International Labour Day 2025 serves as a reminder of the struggles and achievements of workers and trade unions across time. It reflects social movements and workers’ demands for better rights, decent wages, and fair treatment. The International Labour Day 2025 observance will likely include speeches, rallies, awareness campaigns, and worker rights programs.
International Labour Day 2025 Overview | |
Also Known As | International Labour Day / International Workers’ Day / May Day |
Date in 2025 | Thursday, 1 May 2025 |
First Observed | 1 May 1889 (globally recognized after the 1886 Haymarket Affair in Chicago) |
Purpose | To honor workers, celebrate their contributions, and advocate for fair labor practices. |
Origins | Rooted in the 19th-century labor movement for the eight-hour workday |
Global Reach | Public holiday in over 80 countries (e.g., India, France, Russia, China, Germany) |
Celebration Styles | Rallies, parades, speeches, seminars, union events, community gatherings, and spring festivals |
Theme | Yet to be announced |
Exceptions | USA and Canada celebrate “Labor Day” on the first Monday of September |
The International Labour Day Theme 2025 has not been officially released yet. However, each year, the theme focuses on current global labour issues such as digital work, the gig economy, equal pay, or safe workplaces. The theme usually comes from the International Labour Organization (ILO), which plays a major role in promoting labour rights across the world. Once the official theme is announced, it will shape discussions, seminars, and campaigns for Labour Day 2025.
The International Labour Day History traces back to the labour movement in the United States during the late 19th century. On May 1, 1886, workers in Chicago launched a massive strike demanding an 8-hour workday. The protests, known as the Haymarket Affair, turned violent but left a lasting legacy on labour rights.
Later, in 1889, the Second International, a global socialist group, declared 1st May as International Workers’ Day to honour those who sacrificed their lives for the cause. Since then, it has been observed globally to promote workers' rights and dignity.
In India, Labour Day was first celebrated on 1st May 1923 in Chennai (then Madras) by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan. It was led by Comrade Singaravelu Chettiar, who raised awareness about the workers' movement.
Labour Laws in India are essential for protecting workers’ rights and ensuring fair working conditions. The Constitution of India also supports the dignity of labour through the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs). India’s labour law framework underwent significant transformation, consolidating 29 central laws into four comprehensive codes:
These laws cover wages, job security, safety, health, working hours, and social benefits like Provident Fund (PF), Employee State Insurance (ESI), gratuity, and maternity benefits.
Labour Rights in India are protected under both the Constitution and labour legislations. Key constitutional provisions include:
India has also ratified many ILO Conventions, such as:
In practice, Labour Rights in India include:
However, challenges remain. Informal workers, who make up about 90% of India’s workforce, often lack access to these rights. Schemes like e-Shram Portal, PM Shram Yogi Maandhan, and MGNREGA aim to protect unorganised sector workers.
Workers are the backbone of every nation. From construction and farming to IT and healthcare, every sector depends on the hard work and dedication of its labour force. The importance of Labour Day 2025 is shaped by both its historical roots and the contemporary challenges facing the global workforce.
International Labour Day 2025 reminds us that every worker matters. Their rights, safety, and dignity must be protected for a just and inclusive society. Want to master topics like labour laws, governance, and current affairs in depth? Check out PW’s UPSC Courses to boost your preparation!
UPSC Coaching