On May 1, 2025, International Workers Day was celebrated across Eritrea, with events held in various locations, including the Expo Compound and the port city of Massawa. The theme for this year’s observance was “Productivity through Conscious Participation,” reflecting a commitment to enhancing worker engagement and productivity in a rapidly changing global labor landscape.
The main event at the Expo Compound in Asmara was attended by a wide array of dignitaries, including Ministers, senior government officials, members of the People’s Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ), and representatives from the diplomatic community and UN offices in Eritrea. Mr. Kibreab Kidane, the Deputy Secretary-General of the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the evolving nature of global labor conditions. He noted that technological advancements, climate change, migration, war, and displacement are reshaping the workforce.
Kidane pointed out that, despite these challenges, the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers has been proactive in organizing workers into federations and conducting awareness-raising programs. He stated, "Since organization is a fundamental component of labor relations, we have been actively engaged in restructuring workers’ federations, and the number of workers joining the confederation continues to grow steadily." This commitment to organization is seen as a vital step in adapting to the new realities of the labor market.
The celebration also featured speeches from key figures in the labor sector. Mr. Solomon Kifle, a legal advisor on labor law for employers, highlighted the importance of fostering strong relationships between employers and workers. He remarked, "When employers establish strong relationships with their workers, it fosters a sense of ownership and leads to visible progress within the institutions where they are employed." This sentiment underscores the belief that collaboration can drive productivity and job satisfaction.
Mr. Woldeyesus Elisa, the Director General of Labor at the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, reinforced the significance of May Day as a day of unity among workers. He stated, "May Day is an international day of workers’ unity, serving as a moment to celebrate achievements, confront challenges, seek solutions, and promote favorable working conditions for workers." This perspective aligns with the global recognition of the day, which has been observed for the 135th time worldwide and for the 34th time nationally in Eritrea.
In Massawa, the celebration took on a festive atmosphere, featuring sports competitions, public campaigns, and seminars aimed at promoting worker solidarity and productivity. Mr. Habtemariam Tesfamicael, head of the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers branch in the region, articulated the spirit of the day, stating, "May Day is a day when workers raise their voices and renew their pledge to work hard and increase productivity." This call to action resonated with attendees, who were encouraged to recommit to their roles as productive members of society.
Governor Asmeret Abraha also addressed the gathering in Massawa, reflecting on the historical significance of Eritrean workers in the struggle for independence and the ongoing efforts to safeguard national sovereignty. She highlighted the vital role that workers play in implementing national development programs and called for a renewed sense of unity and awareness among citizens. "We must all play our part in national affairs," she urged, emphasizing the importance of collective action in achieving national goals.
Throughout the country, International Workers Day was marked by various activities, showcasing the commitment of Eritrean workers to their roles in society. The events served not only as a celebration of past achievements but also as a platform for addressing current challenges and envisioning a productive future.
The observance of International Workers Day in Eritrea underscores a broader commitment to improving labor conditions and fostering a culture of participation among workers. As the global labor landscape continues to evolve, Eritrea's focus on conscious participation and worker organization aims to empower its workforce and enhance productivity across various sectors.
This year’s celebrations reflect a deep-seated recognition of the importance of workers in shaping the future of the nation. With ongoing efforts to adapt to changing conditions and promote solidarity, Eritrea's observance of International Workers Day serves as a reminder of the critical role that labor plays in national development and social cohesion.