Working Life Research (ARBEIDSLIV)

The primary objective of this research initiative is to gain knowledge and understanding of development trends and measures in working life, with particular emphasis on the most important conditions and processes that affect the participation, empowerment, presence and absence of the individual in working life.

Priority will primarily be given to research that provides new knowledge about and insights into key inclusion and exclusion mechanisms in working life, and how these are affected by restructuring and mobility, a more open labour market, and legislation, measures, negotiations and cooperation. The programme is designed to generate knowledge about the mechanisms and measures that promote inclusion at the individual, enterprise and societal level. Research activities should focus on the work capacity and motivation of the individual, funding will be awarded to projects that focus on analyses  at the enterprise level, on measures utilised by enterprises, and on the joint efforts of employees' and employers' organisations and the authorities to promote an inclusive working life.

Since 2002 the Working Life Research Programme has granted funding to research projects on an inclusive working life. The projects have provided, and are continuing to provide, interesting insight into the functions of the labour market, time use and time practice, the scope and effects of new forms of organisation and management, and financial reward systems in working life. The projects are also cultivating knowledge about inclusion, exclusion, discrimination, and the working environment, as well as carrying out studies of legislation, measures and instruments, negotiations and cooperation.

Financing
The Programme is financed primarily by the Ministry of Labour and Social Inclusion.