By: Fatou Krubally
The People’s Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS) has called on workers in The Gambia to use International Workers’ Day as a platform for renewed advocacy on labour rights, fair conditions, and social protection.
In a statement issued on May 1, PDOIS said that while May Day celebrations in the country often include sports and cultural activities, the day’s core purpose remains reflection on workers’ struggles and the advancement of their rights.
The party recalled that International Workers’ Day originated from 19th-century labour movements that demanded an eight-hour workday, describing it as a symbol of global workers’ unity. It noted that despite progress achieved over the years, the protection and expansion of labour rights remain necessary.
PDOIS urged workers to advocate for fair wages, improved occupational safety, pension security, and access to insurance and compensation schemes. It further stressed the need to strengthen protections for women in the workplace, including maternity leave, safe working environments, and support services such as childcare.
The statement also called for inclusive labour policies ensuring equal opportunities and equal pay for persons with disabilities, while highlighting the conditions of farmers and domestic workers.
It emphasised the importance of improved access to agricultural inputs, fair pricing for crops, and labour-saving equipment, particularly for women in rural areas.
On broader economic issues, PDOIS urged authorities and employers to address rising unemployment, especially among young people, and to ensure decent working conditions across all sectors.
The party also encouraged trade unions to reinforce collective bargaining efforts and push for legislative reforms aimed at strengthening workers’ welfare.
PDOIS called on workers to use the occasion to organise discussions, assess their gains and challenges, and develop concrete resolutions for presentation to the relevant authorities.