International Workers' Day
Labour rights are human rights — honouring the workers who built the modern world.
ABOUT
International Workers' Day — also known as Labour Day or May Day — is observed on May 1 each year as a global commemoration of the labour movement and the hard-won rights that workers secured through decades of struggle. These rights — the eight-hour workday, safe working conditions, child labour protections, the right to organise and strike — transformed industrial societies and improved quality of life for hundreds of millions of people worldwide. In over 80 countries, May 1 is a public holiday marked by trade union marches, political rallies, and community events that celebrate workers' contributions and highlight continuing struggles for fair wages, job security, and dignified working conditions. The rise of gig economy platforms, algorithmic management, and global supply chains has introduced new dimensions to labour rights debates in the 21st century. In 2026, International Workers' Day conversations centre on minimum wage adequacy amid inflation, protections for platform and gig workers, the push for shorter working weeks, and just transition support for workers in fossil-fuel industries facing displacement. The day is a reminder that labour rights are not historical achievements alone — they are living standards that require constant vigilance, collective action, and political will to maintain and expand in every generation.
HISTORY
The date commemorates the Haymarket affair of 1886 in Chicago, where workers striking for an 8-hour workday were met with violence. In 1889, the International Socialist Congress declared May 1 as International Workers' Day. Today it is a public holiday in over 80 countries, though the US and Canada observe Labour Day in September instead.
WHERE IT'S OBSERVED
CULTURAL CONTEXT
US United States
The US observes Labour Day in September, not May 1, due to political concerns in the 1880s about associating with the international socialist movement. Nevertheless, May 1 is increasingly observed by labour unions, immigration activists, and progressive movements as International Workers' Day.
KR South Korea
South Korea celebrates Labour Day (근로자의 날) on May 1 as an official public holiday. Major trade unions hold rallies in Seoul and other cities, and the day highlights ongoing debates about minimum wage, gig worker protections, and the 52-hour work week policy.
JP Japan
Japan calls May 1 'Mē Dē' (May Day) and it falls within the Golden Week holiday cluster. Labour unions hold rallies in major cities. Despite being a significant workers' rights day, Golden Week's festive atmosphere sometimes overshadows the political significance.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE
- 01Learn about the history of a labour right you benefit from today
- 02Support fair-trade and ethically produced goods in your shopping
- 03Attend a local labour movement or workers' rights event
- 04Recognise and thank the essential workers in your community
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When is International Workers' Day?+
International Workers' Day is observed annually on May 1. The date is fixed each year — May 1 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is International Workers' Day?+
International Workers' Day — also known as Labour Day or May Day — is observed on May 1 each year as a global commemoration of the labour movement and the hard-won rights that workers secured through decades of struggle. These rights — the eight-hour workday, safe working conditions, child labour pr…
Is International Workers' Day a public holiday?+
International Workers' Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in International Workers' Day?+
Learn about the history of a labour right you benefit from today Support fair-trade and ethically produced goods in your shopping Attend a local labour movement or workers' rights event These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe International Workers' Day?+
Over 80 countries globally — most of the world.
MARK THE DATE
Download a free printable calendar for 2027 and never miss International Workers' Day.
US United States
United Kingdom
Australia
Canada
KR South Korea
JP Japan