KPL
Government officials, representatives of international organisations, and Vientiane residents turned out at Patouxay in Vientiane this morning to join a community walk to celebrate the 139th anniversary of the International Labour Day (May Day),
(KPL) Government officials, representatives of international organisations, and Vientiane residents turned out at Patouxay in Vientiane this morning to join a community walk to celebrate the 139th anniversary of the International Labour Day (May Day),
Attending in the ceremony were Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, President of the Lao Front for National Development Mr Sinlavong Khoutphaythoune, President and Vice Presidents of the Lao National Federation of Trade Unions, Ministers, and heads of the trade unions of line ministries also joined the walking event.
“The International Labour Day commemorates May 1 in 1886, when workers around the world united in making a stand against the oppression they suffered under their employers. Workers demanded an eight-hour working day, eight hours of rest, and eight hours for recreation. Their dedication to the cause paved the way for the global recognition of workers’ rights and the important role they play in a healthy economy,” said President of the Lao Federation of Trade Unions Mr Leth Xayaphone.
The history of International Labour Day or International Workers’ Day can be traced back to 1886 when the Haymarket Riot erupted involving violent clashes between the labourers and police. Thousands of workers marched through the streets of Chicago demanding an eight-hour workday. In 1889, a worldwide organization of socialist and labour parties, Second International, declared May 1 as International Workers’ Day in the memory of Haymarket incident and to promote the rights of workers.
KPL
