It is the first case of a whole-of-government approach to promote workers' rights, including through government departments and agencies.

The White House fact sheet states, "Upholding common standards and protecting fundamental rights are key for American workers and American companies to compete fairly in the global economy. " 

The Memorandum identifies some of the government's priorities for action, which can be summarised as follows:

• Strengthen engagement with governments, workers, trade unions, civil society, and the private sector to protect and promote respect for internationally recognised labour rights;
• Prevent and protect those who are exposed to threats, intimidation, and violence in their fight for labour rights;
• Strengthen US global leadership on labour rights and the capacity of federal departments and agencies to drive a global labour agenda through joint training and coordination actions;
• Build coalitions to support internationally recognised labour rights and improve global labour standards.

The International Labour Affairs Bureau (ILAB) of the US Department of Labour confirmed it is at the forefront of the US government's efforts to strengthen global labour standards.

In a press statement, the Secretary of State commented: "Labor rights are integral to building democracy, achieving economic growth, strengthening supply chain resilience, and leveling the playing field for American workers and companies."