The theme for May Day this year 2025 is: “Workers’ Rights Are Human Rights”. The theme emphasizes the fundamental principle that the rights of workers should be recognized and upheld alongside other human rights. This concept recognizes that the dignity, safety, and well-being of workers are integral to the broader human rights framework. The May Day celebrations are always a gentle reminder of the Haymarket Square riot of 4 th May 1886, in Chicago. The event shaped the history of the labour as it had lasting implications for workers’ rights and the labor movement in the United States of America and beyond.
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It would be rather amiss for us not to recognize the historical significance of this day as we congratulate the two national trade union federations: Botswana Federation of Trade Unions (BFTU) and Botswana Federation of Public, Private, and Parastatal Sector Unions (BOFEPUSU) for once again jointly commemorating May Day. We congratulate them for being true to the old adage in labour: ๐๐ฃ๐๐ฉ๐๐ ๐ฌ๐ ๐จ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐, ๐๐๐ซ๐๐๐๐ ๐ฌ๐ ๐๐๐ก๐ก.
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The Haymarket Square riot brought national attention to the labor movement's struggles, particularly the demand for an eight-hour workday. It highlighted the harsh working conditions and long hours that many workers faced, galvanizing public support for labor rights. Although change was gradual, the heightened awareness of labor issues following the Haymarket riot contributed to changes in labor laws and regulations, including improved safety standards and the eventual establishment of the eight-hour workday in various industries. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr reminds us that โthe labor movement was the principal force that transformed misery and despair into hope
and progress.โ
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And so, just as it was in Chicago in 1886, so it is in Botswana in 2025. The truth is that the Civil and Political rights that are enshrined in our constitution, cannot be enjoyed with dignity without Workerโs rights. Fellow comrades, how can one enjoy the right to life, without the means to enjoy that life? The means come from decent work. Fellow comrades, how can one enjoy the Freedom of Association, without the right to collective bargaining in the same constitution? The right to join Trade Unions in section 13, only makes sense if the normal functions of the Trade Union movement are recognized in the constitution.
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We note that BFTU and BOFEPUSO have been at the forefront in lobbying Government into ratifying C-190. This is an important step. The workplace should be a place that is safe from bullying and other forms of harassment. When this right is upheld in Botswana, it is our sincere hope that productivity in Botswana shall improve once the workplace is safe. This is just the latest example of how workers rights are human rights.
It should be noted that work is an essential aspect of human life that contributes to an individualโs identity and dignity. Recognizing workers’ rights affirms that every person deserves respect and fair treatment in their work environment. Labor rights are critical in fighting inequality and ensuring justice. When workers’ rights are upheld, they contribute to a more equitable society where all individuals can enjoy similar benefits and protections.
The right to a safe workplace and fair wages is essential to human rights. Workers deserve not only to earn a living but to do so in workplaces that prioritize their health and safety. Workers must have a voice in their workplaces, which is fundamental for democracy and human rights. Empowering workers through unions and collective bargaining allows them to advocate for their rights effectively.
Workers’ rights are not confined to any one nation; they are a global concern. The fight for labor rights transcends borders, emphasizing solidarity among workers worldwide. Organizing is a fundamental right for workers to collectively negotiate better conditions. Denying this right is a violation of human rights principles.
The theme “Workers’ Rights Are Human Rights” serves as a powerful reminder that ensuring dignity, respect, and protection for all workers is essential for the advancement of human rights universally. Upholding these rights fosters not only better conditions for individuals but also contributes to societal progress, equity, and justice. Embracing this theme calls for continuous advocacy and action to protect and expand workersโ rights globally.
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