Membership Fees in Arrears: ILO Cancels Appointment of U.S. Official
United States – The International Labour Organization (ILO) has decided to revoke the appointment of a U.S. official to the position of Deputy Director-General due to prolonged unpaid membership fees. As the United States has failed to pay its mandatory contributions on time, the ILO has rescinded the appointment of an American official to serve as Deputy Director-General.
The U.S. Department of Labor official, Li Sheng (translated name), originally scheduled to take office in July, will now "be unable to assume office as expected." Previously, the ILO’s website officially announced this appointment at the end of April.
The ILO emphasized that its decision "does not prejudge whether the United States will settle its outstanding dues and regain its status as a major contributor," and explicitly stated that the organization "will continue constructive dialogue with the U.S. government on this issue." Since September last year, when another American, Celeste Drake, departed, the Deputy Director-General position has remained vacant. Traditionally held by a U.S. national, this role reflects America's historical status as the organization’s largest donor, providing 22% of its funding. In reality, Washington has failed to pay its dues for 2024 and 2025.
It was anticipated—though never officially confirmed—that former Trump economic advisor Nels Nordquist would be appointed to the role by the end of 2025, raising concerns within the ILO after months of criticism from the U.S. government toward the organization. Ultimately, the ILO appointed Li Sheng to the position.
According to data from the ILO’s website, as of June 1, the United States had accumulated arrears of over 173 million Swiss francs (over 189 million euros) over the past two years. Additionally, the country is also behind on its 2026 contribution, amounting to nearly 84 million Swiss francs. The U.S. is not the only nation failing to meet its financial obligations.
The ILO’s next Council session, scheduled for June 12–13, will review its financial situation, consider proposed measures, and assess progress on reforms.
According to ILO documents, in response to financial pressure—and like other UN agencies—the organization is undertaking significant reform, including cutting approximately 120 positions by 2029, with hundreds more potentially cut if further cost reductions are required.
In late April, the ILO told AFP: "The ultimate solution being prepared by the ILO involves reducing up to about 350 positions and freezing recruitment." The organization added that, in principle, a decision will be made before the third quarter of 2026, depending on changes in membership fees.
As of December 2025, the ILO employed 3,454 staff members, including 1,175 based at its headquarters in Geneva and 2,279 working in offices around the world.
Source: rfi
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1866832374646855/
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