Workers' Compensation: Remember the Dead, Fight for the Living

International Workers' Memorial Day, observed annually on April 28th, serves as a crucial reminder to honor those who have lost their lives or been injured at work and to advocate for safer working conditions for all.

This day takes on new significance in the digital age as we confront the challenges posed by the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) highlights the urgent need to protect workers from the potential risks associated with AI-driven management. Algorithmic control, constant monitoring, unrealistic productivity targets, and potentially dangerous working conditions are real concerns that must be addressed proactively.

Across the globe, issues arise from deploying AI in workplaces without adequate consultation with workers and their unions. Tragically, this can have severe consequences, as seen in cases like the death of a delivery rider reportedly due to impossible productivity targets set by an algorithm or the dismissal of content moderators protesting inhumane AI-managed workloads.

On International Workers' Memorial Day, the ITUC calls for unions' full involvement in designing and implementing workplace AI, advocating for transparent, human-centered technology. They also support a binding ILO Convention on platform work to establish global standards for decent job in the digital economy.

Events and activities are held in various countries to mark this important day, including online discussions, award ceremonies, and campaigns to raise awareness about worker safety and rights.

Let us use this day to remember those we have lost and strengthen our resolve to fight for a future where every worker is safe, respected, and protected, especially as technology continues to reshape the world of work.

Additional Resources
International Worker Memorial Day Events

The Toll of Neglect: Understanding the AFL-CIO Report and Its Impact on NJ Workers' Compensation

Recommended Citation: Gelman, Jon, Remember the Dead, Fight for the Living, www.gelmans.com (04/27/2025) https://workers-compensation.blogspot.com/2025/04/remember-dead-fight-for-living.html

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*Jon L. Gelman of Wayne, NJ, is the author of NJ Workers' Compensation Law (West-Thomson-Reuters) and co-author of the national treatise Modern Workers' Compensation Law (West-Thomson-Reuters). For over five decades, the Law Offices of Jon Gelman 1.973.696.7900
jon@gelmans.com has represented injured workers and their families who have suffered occupational illnesses and diseases.