Yousuf Raza Gilani conveyed that May 1 is more than a date on the calendar; it stands as a symbol of hard work, struggle, human dignity and collective commitment to social justice. In his International Labour Day message the Acting President underscored the importance of recognising the sacrifices made by labourers in their long fight for fundamental rights.
Recalling the historical roots of International Labour Day, he referenced the Haymarket events in Chicago where peaceful demands for an eight-hour workday shaped the global labour movement. Those sacrifices, he said, gave new momentum to calls for fair working conditions and remain a guiding memory for labour rights advocates worldwide.
Mr Gilani stressed that national development, economic stability and sustainable prosperity depend on the dedication of the working class. Workers, he said, are the backbone of the economy and no vision of progress can be realised without ensuring their welfare, dignified employment and fair wages as core priorities of state policy.
The Acting President noted that both the teachings of Islam and the Constitution of Pakistan place emphasis on respecting workers and ensuring social justice. He maintained that it is the responsibility of the state to provide social protection and a safe working environment so that every worker can lead an honourable life.
Highlighting Parliament’s role, Mr Gilani said lawmakers have consistently supported labour-friendly legislation and will continue to pursue laws that strengthen wages, social security and workplace safety. He reaffirmed that further legislative measures, institutional reforms and the reinforcement of social protection systems will be pursued to deliver sustainable solutions to the challenges faced by workers.
Paying tribute to overseas Pakistani workers, the Acting President acknowledged their vital contribution to the national economy through remittances and assured that protecting their rights remains a government priority. He said their service deserves recognition alongside domestic labour efforts.
International Labour Day, he added, is an occasion to appreciate workers’ services and express solidarity with their struggles, particularly amid global economic pressures. Mr Gilani reaffirmed that the Pakistan Peoples Party and Parliament will continue efforts to uphold labour rights, promote social justice and work towards a fair and equitable society.
