KATHMANDU: The 137th International Workers’ Day is being marked today in Nepal and around the world with various programs commemorating the historic labour movement that began in 1886 under the slogan, “Eight hours of work, eight hours of rest, and eight hours of leisure.”
On the occasion, the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security is organizing events across the country with the participation of employers, workers, and representatives of international organizations.
International Workers’ Day has been observed every year on May 1 since 1890, following a decision by a global conference of labour organizations and leaders held in Paris in 1889. Workers mark the day as both a celebration and an opportunity to advocate for their rights and press governments and employers for fair treatment.
In Nepal, the tradition of celebrating the day dates back to the Biratnagar workers’ movement of 2007 BS. The government began declaring a public holiday on May Day after the political changes of 2046 BS, and since the 1960s, official programs have been held annually.
This year’s events will focus on the current condition of workers, labour welfare policies, minimum wage, living standards, and strategies to formalize informal sector employment. Discussions will also cover job creation, youth-focused long-term planning, and the implementation status of labour laws.
The government has reiterated its commitment to policy reforms aimed at protecting workers’ rights, regulating the labour market, managing foreign employment, and strengthening social security systems. According to Prem Prasad Acharya, Joint Secretary at the ministry, progress has been made in implementing the Labour Act, 2074 BS and Labour Regulations, 2075 BS, with amendments underway based on stakeholder feedback.
Nepal remains a major labour-sending country, with remittances forming a significant part of the national economy. The government has emphasized the need to develop skilled and competitive human resources while ensuring safe, dignified, and productive employment both at home and abroad.
The current minimum monthly wage has been set at Rs 19,550, with provisions for revision every two years. Meanwhile, nearly 2.9 million workers have been enrolled in the contribution-based Social Security Fund, and efforts are ongoing to bring an additional 600,000 workers from the formal sector into the scheme.
Authorities have also highlighted ongoing reforms to make foreign employment safer and more organized, while encouraging the use of skills, capital, and experience gained abroad in Nepal’s productive sectors.
Amid rapid technological change and evolving global labour dynamics, ensuring employment opportunities for a growing workforce remains a key challenge, the ministry noted.
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