Dhaka, May 01 (V7N) — Bangladesh is observing International Workers' Day on Friday, commemorating the historic struggle for workers’ rights, in line with more than 80 countries around the world.

The day traces its origins to the Haymarket Affair in Chicago in 1886, when workers took to the streets demanding an eight-hour workday instead of the prevailing 10 to 16 hours. During the protests, at least 10 workers were killed in police firing. Their sacrifice later led to the global recognition of the eight-hour workday.

The movement intensified on May 4 of that year when a bomb explosion and subsequent police firing at Haymarket Square resulted in further casualties. The controversial trial and execution of several labor leaders sparked widespread international protests, marking a turning point in the global labor rights movement.

In Bangladesh, various political, labor, and social organizations have arranged programs to mark the occasion. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has organized a workers’ rally in front of its central office in Nayapaltan in the capital Dhaka.

BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is expected to attend the rally as the chief guest and address issues related to workers’ rights and the current political context.

The day is being observed through rallies, discussions, and cultural programs, highlighting the ongoing importance of fair wages, safe working conditions, and labor rights across the country.

END/SMA/AJ