The historic May Day is being observed in the country as elsewhere across the globe today with due respect amid the coronavirus pandemic.
On this day in 1886, 10 workers were killed when police opened fire on a demonstration in the US city of Chicago near HayMarket demanding an eight-hour working day instead of a 12-hour shift. On the height of agitation, the authorities had to accept the workers’ demand and the eight-hour day has been introduced universally.
Since the day, also known as the International Workers' Solidarity Day is being observed across the globe commemorating the supreme sacrifices of the workers and upholding the rights of the workpeople. But many workers are still being exploited, humiliated and harassed in many ways.
We also express our solidarity with the
continued struggle for labour rights and
fair working conditions for everyone
We believe Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government is highly committed to ensuring compliance with regard to establishing workers’ rights—including providing them with fair wages as well as ensuring a safe and hygienic working environment—to attain the sustainable development goals (SDG) and enhance productivity.
In recent times, a large number of workers in different sectors including RMG, transport, construction have already lost their jobs since coronavirus shutdowns hit their respective sectors. And this ultimately left them in big trouble as they have become unemployed and their families are facing serious financial difficulties. On the other hand, they have not yet ensured conditions of work, including occupational safety and health, wages and hours of work.
Therefore, the government will have to ensure acceptable conditions of work with respect to minimum wages, hours of work, and occupational safety and health. The government will also compel the owners of industries and businesses to take immediate steps for enhancing worker safety with strengthening workers' rights.
On this august occasion, we think the owners of all sectors, including RMG must pay their outstanding for the month of March before Eid festival and to arrange zone wise holidays to avoid public transport crisis and maintain social distancing to facilitate the Eid celebration.
We also express our solidarity with the continued struggle for labour rights and fair working conditions for everyone.
