(Hands That Build the World Deserve Our Respect)
Rayees Masroor:
Whenever I see any labourer at work, I observe them with a sense of love and great respect. There is something profoundly inspiring in their hard work—their silent endurance and their unwavering commitment to earning a dignified livelihood. It feels truly satisfying that a day like International Labour Day is dedicated to celebrating these hardworking individuals whose efforts often go unnoticed, yet whose contributions form the backbone of our society.
International Labour Day, observed every year on the first of May, carries with it a powerful historical legacy. Its origin is closely linked to the Haymarket Affair in Chicago, where workers raised their voices for an eight-hour workday and fair conditions. The movement, though met with violence, ignited a global consciousness about workers’ rights and dignity. Over time, this day became a symbol of struggle, unity, and the ongoing quest for justice in the world of labour.
The idea of the dignity of labour lies at the very heart of this observance. No work is small, and no worker is insignificant. Every task, whether physical or intellectual, contributes to the larger functioning of society. Unfortunately, in a place like Kashmir, this reality often goes ignored, as our younger generation has failed to fully understand the dignity of labour, and many educated youth continue to wait for government jobs. The truth is that a mason building homes, a farmer cultivating fields, a teacher shaping minds, or a worker maintaining public spaces—all deserve equal respect. True progress as a society comes when we move beyond superficial hierarchies and begin to value effort, honesty, and contribution above all else.
However, the reality faced by many labourers is far from ideal. Low wages, unsafe working environments, lack of job security, and exploitation continue to challenge the lives of workers across the globe. The growing informal sector has further exposed labourers to vulnerability, often depriving them of legal protections and social security. In some places, the persistence of child labour and forced labour reminds us that the struggle for basic rights is still unfinished.
This places a moral responsibility on all of us. Respecting labour should not remain confined to words or symbolic gestures. It must be reflected in our actions—in how we treat workers, how we value their time and effort, and how we advocate for a fair system. Governments must ensure protective laws and their proper implementation, while individuals must cultivate empathy and fairness in everyday interactions.
From an Islamic perspective, the dignity and rights of labourers are given great importance. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) emphasized justice and compassion, instructing that a worker should be paid his wages before his sweat dries. This teaching reflects the depth of concern for fairness and humanity in labour relations. Islam views honest work as a source of dignity and even spiritual reward, making it a moral duty to uphold justice in all economic dealings.
Great thinkers across history have also highlighted the significance of labour. Karl Marx spoke about labour as the foundation of value and criticized systems of exploitation. Mahatma Gandhi promoted the dignity of manual work and self-reliance, while B. R. Ambedkar emphasized the need for social justice and the protection of workers’ rights. Their ideas continue to resonate in contemporary discussions on labour and equity.
Labour movements and trade unions have historically played a vital role in securing rights that many workers benefit from today. From demanding fair wages to ensuring safe working conditions, these movements remind us that change is often born out of collective struggle and perseverance. They stand as a testament to the power of unity in the face of injustice.
Even in literature and poetry, the dignity and pain of labour find powerful expression. Allama Iqbal captures this sentiment in his thought-provoking verse:
جس کھیت سے دہقاں کو میسر نہ ہو روزی
اس کھیت کے ہر خوشۂ گندم کو جلا دو
These lines question a system where the one who toils does not reap the reward, and they call for a rethinking of justice and fairness.
International Labour Day, therefore, is more than a date on the calendar. It is a reminder of struggles endured, rights achieved, and responsibilities yet to be fulfilled. It urges us to look beyond our comfort and recognize the hands that build, create, and sustain our world. Honouring labour in its true sense means ensuring dignity, justice, and respect for every worker, every single day. Let us pledge to work towards restoring the dignity of labour and building a system based on fairness and justice.
