Every year on May 1st, people gather around the world to celebrate International Workers’ Day – also known as Labour Day or May Day. International Workers’ Day celebrates the resilience, struggle and triumphs of global workers, supporting advocacy for labour rights and improved working conditions. It is a day of unity and solidarity for the global workforce, calling attention to the continued struggles of labourers and need for fair treatment.
In 2025, International Workers’ Day is more important than ever. As economies adapt to a post-pandemic world, climate change and rapid technological advancements, workers face rising inequality, unsafe conditions, exploitation and economic uncertainty. May 1st is a day to reflect, organise and act.
Labour in 2025: inequality reigns supreme
Despite decades of progress, work remains a source of instability and hardship for millions worldwide.
- Nearly 7% of employed individuals globally live in poverty, earning less than $2.15 per day.
- Women earn approximately 20% less than men for the same work.
- 160 million children worldwide are engaged in child labour, working in dangerous conditions.
- 28 million people are estimated to be trapped in forced labour or modern slavery.
While there have been victories, like improved safety standards and minimum wage laws, the fight for fair treatment continues across industries and borders.
International Workers’ Day: a brief history
Arising from the late 19th century labour movement, International Workers’ Day was established officially in 1889 by the Second International, a worldwide organisation of socialist and labour parties. Its origins vary from country to country.
- In America it came about in commemoration of the Haymarket Affair that took place in Chicago in May 1886, where a peaceful rally for an 8-hour workday ended tragically.
- In Europe, May 1st was historically associated with rural pagan festivals, but the meaning has been replaced in many cases by the modern labour movement association.
- In the Soviet Union, leaders embraced the holiday as a showcase of workers’ solidarity and socialist strength.
- In Germany, Labour Day became an official holiday in 1933 after the rise of the Nazi Party, although free unions were abolished the following day, destroying the German labour movement.
- In many parts of Africa, Latin America and Asia, it has become a focal point for pushing back against worker exploitation, colonial legacies and economic disparity.
Modern labour challenges
2025 has seen the nature of work change again, alongside the challenges facing workers.
- Gig Economy and Digital Labour
Millions work without contracts, lacking contracts, benefits or protections. They have no health insurance, paid sick leave or job security and often face algorithmic management that undermines their autonomy.
Migrant workers remain vulnerable to wage theft, unsafe conditions and legal precarity – especially in agriculture, construction and the domestic service sector.
As AI and automation expand, traditional jobs are being eliminated without support or retraining, deepening economic insecurity for low-income workers.
Forced labour is rising in supply chains in industries including fishing, mining and textiles.
How International Workers’ Day aligns with the mission of The Community Revolution
The Community Revolution is committed to building systems where everyone, regardless of gender, geography or background, can work with dignity and opportunity. Our mission aligns directly with the goals of International Workers’ Day. By championing initiatives that empower workers worldwide, TCR is helping create a future with equal labour rights and opportunities globally.
TCR projects that help support labour rights:
This programme equips underrepresented workers, especially ethnic minorities, women and young people, with digital literacy and tech training, opening access to higher-quality, safer jobs.
In collaboration with the Ghana Permaculture Institute, TCR’s Moringa Initiative focuses on sustainable agriculture and value-chain development. It aims to empower rural communities, including rural farms, young people and women.
- CERC-DL/African SCENe
TCR’s CERC-DL (Community Energy Resource Centres for Digital Learning) initiative aims to bring digital infrastructure and capacity building programmes to communities facing challenges accessing clean, affordable energy. Its purpose is to facilitate community learning and digital literacy.
The African SCENe project is part of this scheme, and aims to establish clean energy hubs in low-income Nairobi schools to help break the cycle of economic exclusion.
How you can celebrate International Workers’ Day 2025
Help us make International Workers’ Day 2025 a day of action and inspiration. It isn’t a day just for governments or unions – it’s for everyone. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Support ethical brands – choose companies that pay fair wages and ensure safe working conditions.
- Join or support labour unions as they remain a vital force protecting workers’ rights.
- Volunteer with advocacy groups such as us! We’re always looking for passionate allies. Check out our volunteering opportunities here.
- Use your voice online. Share information using #MayDay or #WorkersRights and help raise awareness of ongoing inequalities.
Join our community
May 1st is a day to celebrate global workers. Join our community in standing up for labour rights, advocating for fair treatment, and promoting economic justice for all.
Follow us on social media for updates and inspiring stories of workers, changemakers and grassroots initiatives around the world. Take part in live community engagement sessions, subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed and motivated, and explore ways of contributing to our ongoing projects.
Together, we can build an equitable future defined by dignity and opportunity for workers.
Let’s work together to empower the global workforce and create lasting change!
