International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD) is held annually on 28th April to remember those who have lost their lives, suffered injury or experienced illness due to their work. But, it is much more than a day of mourning— it is a global call to action to ensure that every worker is safe at work, and can return home at the end of the day.
What is International Workers’ Memorial Day?
Observed across the world, IWMD was first established by the trade union movement in 1985 to honour the memories of victims of occupational accidents and diseases. It was later recognised by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) to highlight the preventable nature of workplace incidents and accidents.
Why is International Workers’ Memorial Day important?
While workplace incidents are often seen as “accidents”, they are in reality, the result of systemic failures, lack of safety regulation or due to inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Each year, thousands of workers die due to work-related accidents and diseases. A significant number of these deaths are caused by long-terms exposure to hazardous substances, such as asbestos, silica dust and chemicals, as well as workplace-related stress and exhaustion.
IWMD keeps health and safety at the top of the political and corporate agenda, serving as a reminder that health and safety is a fundamental human right, not a luxury.
What is the theme for International Workers’ Memorial Day 2026?
The theme for IWMD 2026 focuses on fighting psychosocial hazards at work, such as stress, burnout and mental health risks associated with new technologies and surveillance.
How you can get involved in International Workers’ Memorial Day
- Hold an IWMD event in your workplace. Order your materials by getting in touch.
- Join Community in holding a one minute silence at 12pm on 28th April to remember all those who have died because of work.
- Share your stories on social media using hashtags like #IWMD26 and #FightForTheLiving to raise awareness on the importance of health and safety.
- Become a Community Health and Safety Rep to champion health and safety rights for your workplace.
- Keep in touch with IWMD events around the world at 28april.org.
- Visit the TUC’s website to search for IWMD events, or to organise your own.
“Remember the Dead, Fight for the Living.” This simple motto captures the essence of IWMD. We honour those who have lost their lives by committing ourselves to fight for better health and safety conditions, stronger laws and safer workplaces for those who are living.
