GENEVA, Switzerland — The U.S. Department of Labor’s second-ranking official traveled to Geneva this week to defend American gig economy policies at an international labor conference where new global workplace standards are under discussion.
Deputy Secretary Keith Sonderling led the U.S. delegation at the 113th International Labour Conference in Switzerland, where he planned to advocate against what he described as restrictive regulations that could harm American businesses and workers.
The conference, which runs through June 13, brings together more than 6,000 delegates from 187 member countries of the International Labour Organization. The gathering focuses on developing global labor standards that could affect millions of workers worldwide.
Administration pushes back on global standards
Sonderling’s appearance reflects the Trump administration’s broader effort to resist international regulations that officials believe could constrain U.S. economic growth.
“The United States is a global leader in the gig economy, and this administration intends to keep it that way by pushing back against international efforts to impose burdensome regulations that stifle innovation, harm growth, and kill jobs,” Sonderling said in prepared remarks.
The deputy secretary emphasized the administration’s commitment to protecting American interests both domestically and internationally. He described the gig economy as a significant driver of economic growth that provides new job opportunities for workers globally.
Focus on artificial intelligence leadership
Beyond gig economy issues, Sonderling planned to host a roundtable promoting U.S. leadership in artificial intelligence development. The session aimed to position America as the premier international leader in AI technology and its workplace applications.
The deputy secretary also scheduled bilateral meetings with government representatives from various countries and a meeting with ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo. These discussions were expected to focus on preventing unfair labor practices that could disadvantage American workers and businesses.
Global workplace standards under review
The International Labour Conference serves as the primary forum for establishing global workplace standards that influence labor policies worldwide. U.S.-developed platforms have become major players in gig work, supporting everything from software development to rideshare and delivery services.
The conference’s deliberations could result in new international standards that would affect how countries regulate gig work, artificial intelligence in the workplace, and other emerging employment trends.
Representatives from governments, employer organizations, and worker groups participate in the annual conference to discuss and vote on proposed labor standards that member countries are encouraged to adopt.
