Prime Minister honours labour movement history

The history of the Sri Lankan labour movement is a remarkable journey shaped by decades of sacrifice in pursuit of rights and dignity.

Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya stated that the working people emerged as an organised force beginning with the 1893 printers' strike.

The voice of labour gained political strength through the trade union movement and the emergence of the Lanka Sama Samaja Party.

Historic actions like the 1923 Railway Workers' Strike and the 1947 public service strike reaffirmed workers as the driving force of national transformation.

The Prime Minister acknowledged contributions from workers in plantations, ports, railways, and the public and private sectors.

This year’s May Day holds significance as it occurs under a government built through the people's power.

Core policy commitments include safeguarding rights and creating a fair, safe working environment.

The government prioritises establishing a national social protection system that recognises unpaid labour and guarantees social security.