TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — As Labor Day on May 1 approaches, unions across Taiwan are preparing for a demonstration to highlight critical workforce issues and advocate for improved rights and protections.
Labor groups have long used May 1 as a platform to call on the government to address unresolved labor policy concerns. This year’s march will present seven key demands, according to CNA.
The demands encompass a broad spectrum of labor concerns, including:
- Opposition to workplace bullying
- Reduced working hours
- Enhanced retirement security
- Wage increases
- Full protection of fundamental labor rights
- Increased staffing in critical sectors like medical, educational, and childcare
- The implementation of a just transition in response to climate change policies
Taiwan Confederation of Trade Unions President and chief organizer of the rally Tai Kuo-jung (戴國榮) anticipates that around 5,000 people will take part. The march is scheduled to begin at 12:30 p.m. on Ketagalan Boulevard in Taipei.
Participants will march past key landmarks and government institutions, including Taipei Main Station, the Executive Yuan, and the Legislative Yuan, before returning to the starting point.
A major issue this year is the need for stronger legislation to combat workplace bullying and ensure occupational safety. Tai emphasized that both civil servants and private-sector workers should receive equal protection under labor laws.
In addition, unions are advocating for expanded paid leave entitlements, including longer annual leave, more public holidays, and the introduction of a three-day weekend. These measures are viewed as essential for challenging Taiwan’s longstanding culture of excessive working hours.
On wages, labor advocates are pushing for an increase in the minimum monthly salary from NT$28,590 (US$885) to NT$32,000, citing the growing disparity between stagnant wages and the rising cost of living.
The rally will also highlight the potential impact of climate policies on workers. As Taiwan moves toward its goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, Tai emphasized the importance of a “just transition” that takes workers in high-emission industries into account.
He urged social dialogue between the government, labor groups, and industries, stressing that carbon reduction policies could significantly affect workers in sectors such as manufacturing and energy. Unions are calling for worker representation on the carbon fee review committee to ensure that labor interests are factored into environmental policymaking.
Additional demands include raising the mandatory contribution rate under the new labor pension scheme, and removing the 45-month cap on pension calculations under the old system. Also, lowering the threshold for union formation, and addressing chronic understaffing in sectors like healthcare, education, and childcare.
