Mexico commemorated Labor Day (Día del Trabajo) today with nationwide events honoring the contributions of workers and highlighting ongoing challenges in the labor sector. As a federal public holiday, most businesses, schools, and government offices remained closed, allowing citizens to participate in marches, rallies, and family gatherings.
In Mexico City, thousands gathered in the historic Zócalo square, where labor unions and civil organizations organized demonstrations advocating for improved wages, enhanced working conditions, and stronger social protections. Similar events took place across the country, reflecting a collective call for labor reforms.
Recent data from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) underscores the urgency of these demands. As of March 2025, approximately 54.4% of Mexican workers—equating to 32.5 million individuals—are employed in the informal sector, lacking access to social security and legal labor protections. This issue disproportionately affects women, with a 54.8% informality rate compared to 54.4% for men.
Furthermore, the labor market faces demographic shifts. While 30.2% of workers are aged between 31 and 40, and 29.2% are between 21 and 30, there’s a growing segment (29%) aged 41 to 65 approaching retirement. This trend signals the approaching end of Mexico’s demographic dividend, posing challenges for future economic growth and labor force sustainability.
Educational attainment among the workforce also presents concerns. Only 23.8% of employed individuals have completed higher education, while 37.1% have only basic education, and 37% have attained a high school level. This educational distribution limits opportunities for upward mobility and access to formal employment.
Labor Day in Mexico traces its origins to the early 20th century, with the first official celebration in 1923. The day serves as a reminder of the historical struggles for workers’ rights and the ongoing efforts needed to address current labor challenges.
