1 May: National or International Labour Day? Explore the Details
Labour Day will once again be commemorated this year on 1 May 2026. This moment draws attention due to its connection to labour issues and workers’ welfare in various countries.
However, many still question whether 1 May is a national or international Labour Day. To understand the answer, here are the details of Labour Day that need to be known.
1 May is International Labour Day
Globally, 1 May is known as International Labour Day or May Day. This commemoration is celebrated in various countries as a symbol of workers’ struggles in fighting for their rights.
In Indonesia, this commemoration has also been adopted as a national Labour Day. This designation is based on Presidential Decree No. 24 of 2013, which establishes 1 May as a national holiday.
The regulation states that “1 May as a Holiday to commemorate International Labour Day,” thereby strengthening official recognition of this commemoration at the national level.
History of International Labour Day
Quoted from Encyclopaedia Britannica, the May Day commemoration began with the labour movement at the end of the 19th century in the United States. At that time, workers demanded the implementation of an eight-hour workday that was more humane.
One important event that preceded it was a large demonstration on 1 May 1886 in Chicago. This action later developed into a symbol of labour struggles in various countries and is commemorated every year as International Labour Day.
Over time, May Day has become a global momentum to voice workers’ rights, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and labour protection. Many countries then made it an official holiday, including Indonesia.
Labour Day in Indonesia and Other Countries
In Indonesia itself, Labour Day underwent changes in status before finally being designated as a national holiday in 2013. This policy serves as recognition of the role of workers in national development.
Besides Indonesia, many countries around the world also commemorate 1 May as their national Labour Day. Nevertheless, there are also countries that have different dates for the commemoration according to their respective historical backgrounds.
For example, the United States also commemorates Labour Day in September. According to the History website, this commemoration was established in 1894 as a federal holiday to honour workers’ contributions, with a historical context different from May Day.
The commemoration of Labour Day every 1 May serves as an important reminder of the significance of protecting and improving workers’ welfare. Whether as International Labour Day or national, this momentum remains relevant in driving improvements in labour conditions in various countries, including Indonesia.