Bermuda was represented at the International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.

Gabrielle Cann, the Director of Labour and government representative, and Dean Smith, president of the Bermuda Trade Union Congress and worker representative, attended as part of the United Kingdom delegation.

The International Labour Conference is the ILO’s principal global forum for advancing international labour standards, employment policy and workers’ rights.

The Conference brings together government, employer and worker representatives from the ILO’s 187 member states to discuss emerging issues affecting the world of work.

A significant outcome of this year’s conference was the adoption of the first international labour standard specifically addressing work performed through digital labour platforms. The convention establishes principles relating to worker protections, fair remuneration, occupational safety and health, social protection, algorithmic management, dispute resolution and employment classification in the platform economy.

Ms Cann participated in the Standard-Setting Committee on Decent Work in the Platform Economy, contributing to discussions that culminated in the adoption of the landmark convention.

Mr Smith participated in the Recurrent Discussion Committee on social dialogue and tripartism, contributing to discussions on strengthening co-operation among governments, employers, and workers to promote labour stability, social justice and sustainable economic development.

Ms Cann also participated in a meeting between Caricom representatives and Gilbert F Houngbo, the ILO director-general. The meeting provided an opportunity for Caribbean labour administrations to discuss regional labour market priorities, workforce development, social protection, migration and the future of work within the Caribbean context.

In addition, Ms Cann and Mr Smith met with British ministers Andrew Western, the Minister for Transformation, and Kate Dearden, Minister for Employment Rights and Consumer Protection, as well as UK Government officials, to discuss labour policy developments, international labour standards and matters of mutual interest to Bermuda and Britain.

Mr Smith said the event “provided a valuable opportunity for governments, employers, and workers to engage on global labour standards and reaffirm Bermuda's commitment to constructive social dialogue, tripartism and strong worker representation”.

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, said: “Bermuda’s participation in the ILC ensures that we remain engaged in important international discussions shaping the future of work.

“The conference provided valuable opportunities to contribute to the development of international labour standards, strengthen relationships with regional and international partners and gain insight into emerging workplace issues that may influence labour policy in Bermuda.”

The ministry noted that the conference provided valuable exposure to international best practices and emerging labour policy trends, including digitalisation, platform work, social dialogue, gender equality and workforce protection.