Kathmandu: Nepal is observing the 137th International Workers' Day today, commemorating the historic labor movement that began in Chicago in 1886 with the slogan: “Eight hours work, eight hours rest, eight hours leisure.”

Celebrated globally since 1890 on May 1, the day highlights workers’ rights and serves as a platform to demand fair wages, dignity, and justice. In Nepal, the roots of this observance trace back to the Biratnagar workers’ movement of 2007 BS, and it was officially declared a public holiday after the political change of 2046 BS.

On this occasion, the Ministry of Labour Employment and Social Security has organized discussions and interaction programs nationwide. These focus on key issues such as workers’ rights, minimum wage policies, and strategies to bring informal sector workers into the formal economy.

The government has currently set the minimum monthly wage at Rs 19,550 and is reviewing it periodically in consultation with stakeholders. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to strengthen the labor market through effective implementation of the Labor Act 2074 and related regulations.

With remittances playing a crucial role in Nepal’s economy, the government is also working to make foreign employment safer, more organized, and free from exploitation. Programs are being promoted to encourage returnee migrant workers to invest their skills and capital in productive sectors within the country.

So far, around 2.9 million workers have been enrolled in the contribution-based social security scheme, with plans to expand coverage further.

As global labor markets evolve rapidly due to technological change and shifting economic conditions, creating employment opportunities for new entrants remains a major challenge. The government has emphasized long-term goals of building a skilled workforce, promoting self-employment, and reducing poverty.

The day is expected to reinforce awareness about workers’ rights while urging all stakeholders to create a fair and dignified working environment.