The Ministry of Economy and Labour is pleased to report on Bermuda’s participation in the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC), convened by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Geneva, Switzerland, from 1–12 June 2026.
Bermuda participated as part of the United Kingdom delegation, represented by Gabrielle Cann, Director of Labour and Government Representative, and Dean Smith, President of the Bermuda Trade Union Congress and Worker Representative.
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 and to develop international labour standards.
A significant outcome of this year’s Conference was the adoption of the Convention concerning Decent Work in the Platform Economy, 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. The Committee examined the opportunities and challenges presented by digital labour platforms and considered measures to ensure that technological innovation is accompanied by appropriate labour protections.
Mr. Smith participated in the Recurrent Discussion Committee on Social Dialogue and Tripartism, contributing to discussions on strengthening cooperation among governments, employers, and workers to promote labour stability, social justice and sustainable economic development.
During the Conference, Ms. Cann also participated in a meeting between CARICOM representatives and ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo. 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 UK Ministers Andrew Western MP, Minister for Transformation and Kate Dearden MP, 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 the United Kingdom.
President of the Bermuda Trade Union Congress, Mr Smith, stated after his participation in the ILC:
“It was an honour to represent Bermuda at this year's International Labour Conference. It 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. I look forward to continuing this work with our social partners to strengthen workplace standards across the island."
Commenting on Bermuda’s participation, Minister of Economy and Labour, the Hon. Jason P. Hayward, JP, MP, stated:
"Bermuda’s participation in the International Labour Conference 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. I am particularly pleased that Bermuda was represented in both the Platform Economy and Social Dialogue Committees, ensuring our voice was present in discussions that are highly relevant to the future of our labour market."
The Ministry noted that participation in 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. The knowledge gained through Bermuda’s participation will continue to inform the Government’s efforts to promote fair, modern and balanced labour relations within the Island.
