May 1st once again reminded us of those hands that keep Pakistan running — the hands of our labourers, mechanics, farmers, factory workers, and countless others. On this Labour Day, both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif released heartfelt messages, not just to honour workers but to recommit to improving their lives.
The President, in his message, acknowledged the hard work and dedication of workers across the country. He said, “Without labour, no nation can build itself. The men and women who give sweat and time deserve respect, rights, and fair wages.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s message carried the same tone — a reminder that the government must do more than just give speeches. He spoke about policies being introduced to increase the minimum wage and enforce worker protection laws. He also promised steps toward providing healthcare and pensions to those who need them the most.
But beyond these messages, the reality is that millions of workers in Pakistan still live in tough conditions. Many work long hours, often in unsafe environments, with little or no job security. A large number of them don’t even have formal contracts or access to labour courts if they’re wronged.
Labour unions welcomed the government’s words but questioned how much would actually be done. “Every year we hear promises. What we need now is action,” said a textile worker from Faisalabad. “We’re not asking for luxury. Just fairness.”
Despite growing industries and large development projects, the labour class in Pakistan often gets the smallest slice of the pie. Rising inflation, especially in basic items like food and fuel, hits them the hardest. Meanwhile, companies often escape accountability when they violate labour rights.
Still, Labour Day offers an opportunity — not just to celebrate the role of workers but to seriously think about how to support them in practice. Education for their children, medical care, pension after years of hard work — these are not favours, but rights.
President Zardari ended his message by saying, “Let us not just celebrate workers on May 1st. Let us stand with them every day.”
That’s the real test — whether Pakistan is truly ready to walk the talk when it comes to its working class
