Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, issued the following statement on 29th April, 2025 calling for the observance of May 1st, International Workers’ Day, or May Day.

“May 1 is approaching, observed worldwide as May Day. On this day in 1886, in Chicago, USA, the labor community set a shining example of sacrifice in the struggle to establish their rights. Inspired by that event, workers across the globe continue to fight for their rightful demands. However, the struggle to ensure fair labor rights has yet to achieve full success. Workers are often seen protesting on the streets to demand fair wages and benefits. In some cases, they even lose their lives in the process of securing these rights.

Sometimes, instead of fulfilling workers’ rightful demands, employers prioritize their own interests, depriving workers of their due. On the other hand, workers in pursuit of their rights sometimes damage property or commit acts of arson, which is deeply regrettable. This situation must come to an end.

It is now abundantly clear that no man-made ideology has been able to provide a just and lasting solution to the problems of humankind. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) strongly emphasized: “Pay the worker his wage before his sweat dries.” The true welfare of both employers and workers lies in implementing the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who gave clear and just guidance on the treatment and rights of workers.

Workers are still deprived of their rightful wages and dignity in many sectors. Conflicts between owners and workers persist in factories and production units. Workers protesting for fair wages and rights are often laid off, harassed with lawsuits, or even injured and killed by gunfire. This situation must be rectified. We firmly believe that only by adopting an Islamic labor policy can we ensure the true welfare of workers while protecting the legitimate interests of employers.

In the face of the prevailing situation in the country, I extend an earnest call to all laborers and citizens to observe May 1—International Workers' Day—with due importance and fervor.”