May Day Commemoration and Activism
Workers Rally Concludes: Organize for Rights, Demand Protections, and Push for Justice in Policy
Labour Day 2026 was marked by powerful demonstrations across Pakistan, as workers from diverse sectors rallied for rights, dignity, and justice.
The Labour Education Foundation convened over 70 home-based workers alongside more than 150 employees from Rehman Cotton Mill, Khyber Tobacco, and other industries in Takht Bhai. Labour leaders underscored workers’ indispensable role while highlighting urgent challenges such as low wages, inflation, and lack of basic facilities. The convention calls for unity, collective organizing, and stronger government protections echoed throughout the gathering. Meanwhile, in Lahore, hundreds mobilized under the Textile Power-loom Garment Workers Union, Pakistan Bhatta Mazdoor Union, and Home-Based Workers Union. Marching from Shimla Pahari to the Press Club, demonstrators demanded fair wages including fixing the minimum wage at Rs. 80,000 and an immediate inflation allowance.
Distinguished labor leaders and representatives condemned rising fuel prices and persistent gaps in labour protections, urging authorities to guarantee universal access to social security and the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI), highlighting the plight of the homebased workers who are often forced to work more hours. Other voices spoke against systemic inequalities and poverty, stressing the need to uphold labour rights across all platforms and ensure equal rule of law.
The day concluded with renewed commitments to collective struggle, awareness-raising, and advocacy for a just and equitable future.
