U.S. Department of Labor Deputy Secretary Keith Sonderling is set to participate in the 113th International Labor Conference in Geneva, representing the U.S. delegation and advocating for the Trump administration's America First labor agenda.
Deputy Secretary Sonderling will deliver remarks highlighting the U.S.'s leading role in the gig economy and advocating for policies that encourage innovation, freedom, and economic opportunity. His participation comes as the International Labour Organization considers new global standards that could impact businesses and workers in the U.S. and internationally.
"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. President Trump has been clear: we will fight for American workers and American businesses each and every day – both at home and on the world stage. Amplifying that message and standing up for our people will be my key priorities at this year’s conference," said Deputy Secretary Sonderling.
The gig economy has emerged as a significant contributor to economic growth, creating opportunities for well-paying jobs worldwide. U.S.-developed platforms have become central to gig work across various sectors such as software development, rideshare, and delivery services.
In addition to his speech, Deputy Secretary Sonderling will host a roundtable promoting the U.S. as a leader in artificial intelligence. He plans to hold bilateral meetings with representatives from different governments and meet with ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo to discuss ensuring fair labor practices that do not disadvantage American workers and businesses.
The 113th International Labour Conference takes place from June 2 to June 13, 2025, in Geneva. It is attended by over 6,000 delegates representing governments, employers', and workers' organizations from the ILO's 187 Member States.