Kabul Marks International Workers’ Day with Calls for More Jobs

International Workers’ Day was commemorated in Kabul, with government officials and private sector representatives emphasizing support for workers, protection of their rights, and the creation of more job opportunities.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs highlighted the challenging working conditions in Afghanistan and said the government is striving to create more employment opportunities for workers.

He also stressed the importance of unity and cooperation among the people, adding that Afghan workers in some foreign countries face unfair treatment.

Abdul Manan Omari, Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, said: “It is clear that Afghans, regardless of their titles, must unite and each fulfill their responsibilities and contribute positively; otherwise, our country will remain dependent on others for a long time.”

The Deputy Minister for Technical Affairs at the Ministry of Economy also highlighted the role of workers in economic growth, noting that the country’s GDP has grown by 5 percent and inflation decreased to 2 percent in 2025.

He attributed these improvements to the efforts of workers and emphasized strengthening skilled labor, supporting domestic production, and enhancing job security.

Abdul Latif Nazari added: “Workers are, in fact, ambassadors of development and reconstruction in Afghanistan; in other words, they are the backbone of the country’s economy. Without active and hardworking workers, the country’s infrastructure cannot be rebuilt and developed.”

Abdul Mateen Mawlawi Zada, head of the Afghanistan Workers’ Union, highlighted the challenges faced by workers and called for solutions, saying: “This hardworking segment faces challenges such as low wages, lack of permanent job security, poor working conditions, and limited employment opportunities.”

Some employees from government and private institutions, while welcoming the event, called on authorities to increase their salaries.

Hamidullah, a private sector employee, said: “In private institutions, people work 17 to 18 hours a day, but salaries are low. Due to limited job opportunities, people face many problems and are forced to work for low pay.”

In a message, the Prime Minister of the Islamic Emirate emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring workers’ rights within the framework of Islamic principles.

May 1 is designated as International Workers’ Day by the International Labour Organization; however, in Afghanistan, the day was marked with a four-day delay.