12th Nordic Working Life Conference

The theme of the 12th Nordic Working Life Conference 2026 is 'Understanding Nordic Working Life in local and global contexts' Tendencies and changes at local and global levels create opportunities and challenges for the Nordic model and working life in the Nordic countries. While Nordic labour markets are generally considered as an example of flexibility, quality and equal opportunities, there is a continuous need for research that identifies and generates insight into new elements at different levels of working life. Through conceptual and theoretical development as well as creation of knowledge about the role and behaviour of different actors in working life, working life studies play a crucial role in laying the foundation for successful collaboration between government, public agencies, employers, trade unions and other actors in the labour market.

The conference takes place 11-13 May 2026 at Hotel Reykjavík Grand. During 45 sessions, researchers will present about diverse topics, including industrial relations and welfare models, occupational safety and health, flexibility in the labour market and the workplace, technological developments, platform work, gender equality, sustainability and work inclusion of LGBTQ+, migrant or disabled workers. In addition, prof. Marjut Jurkinen (University of Helsinki, FI), prof. Marlene Spanger (Aalborg University, DK) and prof. Guðbjörg Linda Rafnsdóttir (University of Iceland, IS) will hold keynote lectures focusing on equal opportunities in work and employment and technological development.

The Nordic Working Life Conference is organised in close collaboration with the Nordic Journal on Working Life Studies and the scholarly community in the Nordic countries.

The conference is held every two years and is now in Iceland. This is a unique opportunity to listen to presentations on the latest research in the Nordic context and to engage in dialogue with academics, social partners, professionals and other parties related to the labour market.

Icelandic social partners, government officials, professionals and other parties who want to come and listen to the presentations can register at a discounted price by using the discount code VINNA2026 (note: this discount does not apply to participants who are registered with a presentation).

Further information about the conference can be found HERE or by sending us email at NWLC2026@hi.is.