Joint Worker-Employer Effort Key to a Prosperous Bangladesh

Chief Advisor Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus has stated that workers and employers are complementary to each other, and only their joint efforts can build a strong, self-reliant, and prosperous Bangladesh.

He made the remarks in a message marking International Workers' Day (May Day) and National Occupational Health and Safety Day 2025.

“To rebuild the nation, we must strengthen the environment of unity, mutual respect, and trust,” said Dr. Yunus. “I am pleased to see that May Day is being observed across the country with due dignity in solidarity with working people around the world.”

He recalled the historic struggle of workers at Haymarket, Chicago on May 1, 1886, for fair wages, an eight-hour workday, and respect for labor, saying that the day is not just a calendar observance but a source of inspiration in the global fight for workers’ rights. “We pay our deep respect and gratitude to those whose sacrifices earned this recognition for workers.”

Dr. Yunus emphasized the vital role of May Day in promoting strong labor-management relations to drive the national economy forward. He noted that this year’s May Day theme, “Workers and Employers Unite to Rebuild the Nation,” is particularly relevant for Bangladesh’s sustainable development.

Highlighting the contribution of both workers and employers in various sectors—including garments, agriculture, industry, construction, transport, and technology—he said their intelligence and tireless efforts are behind Bangladesh’s progress. “If we continue this spirit of unity and cooperation, the dream of building an equal and just Bangladesh—sparked by the student-worker-people’s uprisings of July and August—can become a reality.”

He also noted that this year, alongside May Day, National Occupational Health and Safety Day 2025 is being observed. “We are committed to ensuring fair recognition and social protection for workers. A safe and healthy work environment is not just a right but a critical condition for industrial and economic development. Enhancing workers’ quality of life reflects positively across the entire industrial sector and national economy.”

Concluding his statement, the Chief Advisor expressed confidence that the partnership between workers and employers would further accelerate Bangladesh’s development journey. He wished all the programs undertaken for May Day 2025 and Occupational Health and Safety Day 2025 complete success.