Labour rights or workers’ rights are a group of legal rights and human rights for all men and women to obtain decent and productive work, in conditions of freedom, equity, security, and dignity. Here, Juthy Saha discusses the history and importance of International Workers’ Day.
International Workers’ Day or Labour Day on 1 May held in commemoration of the execution of innocent anarchist workers, struggling for 8 hour working day. It is marked as a public holiday in most countries. Normally celebrated through parades & marches to secure workers’ rights.
The decision for the 8-hour day was made by the National Labour Union in the United States in August 1866 and then promoted by the international Labour movements, socialists, communists or anarchists.
Rights of Workers:
- Work under satisfactory, safe, and healthy conditions.
- Receive equal pay for equal work without distinction of any kind.
- Protection against discrimination based on sex, race, religion, age, disability, and sexual orientation.
- Have rest, leisure and reasonable limitation of working hours and period of holidays with pay as well as remuneration for public holidays.
- Be trained and retrained for the development of his or her skills.
- Receive information related to work.
- Labor law: Clear document on everything such as part-time work, fixed-term contracts, working hours, etc.
- The right of everyone to form and join the trade union of his choice.
Workers Duty:
Workers also have to maintain the following rules;
- Take reasonable care for for the safety and health of own and fellow
- Follow reasonable directions & obey lawful instruction regarding the organization
- Work conscientiously in the lawfully chosen occupation.
- Report for work regularly and punctually.
- Execution of assigned work & enhance productivity
- Take proper care of the property of the employer entrusted to the worker or under the control of the worker.
Respect is a key requirement for a healthy work environment. It promotes teamwork and increases productivity and efficiencies in the workplace. It lets employees know they are valued for their abilities, qualities and achievements, and that their role is important to their company’s success.