Honouring Labour With Compassion

It’s International Workers’ Day 2025 today!

The History and Global Significance of International Workers’ Day

Celebrated on the 1st of May since 1889, this year would mark 136 years since the world recognised the importance of decent work and fair pay for the most integral part of the society- the workers. It began as a tribute to the efforts of working people, and over time, it helped millions of people with the opportunity to win fundamental rights and protections. Minimum wages were established, with limited working hours and people were given the rights to paid holidays and sick days-all of which are important for a good work-life balance and social justice.

A Moment to Reflect and Remember

It is also a rare opportunity for workers to take a break from their daily toil. At the same time, in many countries like France, Greece, Pakistan, the United Kingdom and the United States, demonstrations are held to campaign for better workers’ conditions and show solidarity with the ones struggling to get their voices heard. This day is also marked globally as International Workers Memorial Day, a time to remember those who lost their lives or were injured while at work.

Like many modern issues that demand our attention and action, the treatment of workers is something Islam addressed long before labour rights were formalised. To understand the Islamic perspective on labour rights, we look back to the infinite wisdom of the Holy Qur’an and the words of our beloved Prophet Muhammad(ﷺ), who was the living manifestation of the Divine words.

Workers' Rights Through the Lens of Islam

Islam being the religion of peace, justice, fairness and compassion, it emphasises on the fair treatment of workers with kindness and equity. Our faith promotes

empowering communities through work, promoting fair wages and treating workers with dignity and respect. At the same time, employers are strongly discouraged from delaying the workers’ payment and instead, puts more focus on paying the wages promptly. As the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) advised, “Give the worker his wages before his sweat dries." (Ibn Majah), we are reminded that Islam indeed values the hard work of a labourer and believes in rewarding them for the efforts however it’s due, a principle that strongly resonates with modern day labour rights.

In another hadith by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) on workers, that strongly teaches us to be humane, compassionate and respectful towards workers, irrespective of their jobs or race, and giving them the recognition for being our helpers, the Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Your workers are your brothers. Allah has made them your dependents. Whoever has a brother under him, should feed him of what he eats and clothes him of what he wears. Do not burden them beyond their capacity, and if you do, then assist them." (Bukhari)

The Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) Teachings on Fair Treatment

On many other occasions, the Prophet (ﷺ) highlights the consequences of exploiting workers which are not limited to this world but would also translate into the next life, and he says : "I will be an opponent to three types of people on the Day of Resurrection... one who hires a workman and having taken full work from him, does not pay him his wages." (Bukhari)

A Call Against Exploitation and Injustice

In a world where many reputed industries are facing issues like gender pay gap and disparities, the verse below is a beautiful reminder that Allah SWT sees and values your efforts regardless of who you are:

"And never will I allow to be lost the work of [any] worker among you, whether male or female." (Qur’an 3:195) 

In another instance, the Qur’an reaffirms the principle of fairness: "… We will surely give them their due reward, and they will not be w ronged." (11:15) 

The Timeless Value of Every Worker

As we reflect on the significance of International Workers’ Day, let us also remember the countless individuals around the world who still work in difficult conditions, often without fair pay or basic rights. Islam urges us not only to uphold the dignity of workers but also to stand as advocates for those who are vulnerable.

Honour Their Labour – Take Action Today

At Penny Appeal, we remain committed to empowering communities through sustainable livelihood programmes, vocational training, and support for families struggling to make ends meet.

This International Workers’ Day, join us in honouring their efforts. Support an orphan. Empower a family. Help them earn with dignity – today.

Happy International Workers Day to all those striving for a better tomorrow.

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