Like many nations across the globe, Mali marked a white stone on May 1, 2025, International Workers’ Day. Placed under the eloquent theme: “Working in dignity, defending justice, preserving the nation”, this commemoration was the solemn opportunity to pay tribute to the tireless efforts of the Malian workers and to arouse a deep reflection on the persistent socio-economic challenges which hinder their development.
The boulevard of independence served as a place of convergence for social actors, symbolizing the unity of the world of work.
May 1: an emblematic day of struggles and hopes
The first day of May constitutes a significant date in the Malian calendar, erected during a holiday and traditionally marked by the parades of trade union organizations and passionate debates on the fundamental rights of workers. Entities such as the UNTM (National Union of Mali Workers) have orchestrated demanding marches throughout the national territory, illustrating the persistence of the struggle for more just and worthy working conditions.
A arduous socio-economic context: the challenges of 2025
The year 2025 is distinguished by a particularly difficult socio-economic environment for Mali, weakened by a multidimensional crisis with deep ramifications. On this symbolic day, the voices of the unions have been raised forcefully through poignant speeches, calling the authorities of the military transition to provide concrete solutions to crucial issues such as the precariousness of employment, which affects an important fringe of the active population, and galloping inflation, which erodes the purchasing power of households.
Assessment and perspectives: a crossed look at the world of work
According to the words of the Minister of Labor, Dr Fassoum Coulibaly, the celebration of May 1 has a double dimension: that of a lucid assessment of advances and setbacks, and that of a proactive projection to the future. He underlined the imperative to recognize and enhance the efforts made by Malian workers, while resolutely turning to the construction of a future where worthy work will be a reality for all, thus contributing to the preservation and development of the nation.
The point of view of employers: collaboration for a better future
Mossadech Bally, president of the National Council for Mali employers, has enriched the debate by stressing that this annual commemoration symbolizes the incessant workers’ struggles for the continuous improvement of their working conditions. He insisted on the need for constructive collaboration and a peaceful social dialogue between the various actors in the world of work – employers, employees, and public authorities – in order to build together an economic and social future more prosperous and equitable for Mali.
Work, essential engine of national development
Yacouba Katile, secretary general of the UNTM, reaffirmed with conviction that work constitutes the fundamental engine of national development and individual and collective development. He expressed his legitimate pride towards worthy Malian workers, welcoming their invaluable contributions to the prosperity and the influence of the country.
By way of conclusion, the May 1 festival turns out to be much more than a simple celebration: it represents a privileged opportunity to forcefully reaffirm the rights of Malian workers in the face of considerable socio-economic challenges that stand on their way. May this day inspire concrete actions and daring public policies aimed at improving working conditions permanently and strengthening social justice in Mali.
Happy May 1 party to all Malian workers!
Writing
