Labour relations
We do research on labour regulations, collective organisation, and individual behaviour in working life – analysing the conditions for change, as well as their results. How is the distribution of power, participation, employment, income, and working conditions among social groups being altered? What are the relations between such changes and the demands for renewal or reform of of organisational structures and regulations?

Labour migration

The Eastern enlargements of EU in 2004 kick-started a new phase in the Norwegian working life. In recent years, we have experienced unparalleled labour and service mobility to Norway.

The Nordic model

The Nordic model has gained much attention, both politically and scientific, in recent years. In the 1980s and 1990s the model was considered as not being viable ...

Industrial relations

Social dialogue is central to the Norwegian model. The social dialogue lay down the foundation for both representative and individual arrangements aimed at employee participation.

Collective agreements

Wages and working conditions may be regulated by statutory law and collective agreements and employment contracts. Collective agreements are agreements ...

News about labour relations and labour market

What has Norway achieved with the EEA and Norway Grants?

Thursday, 16 February 2023

Norway allocated a total of NOK 60 billion to the EEA and Norway Grants from 2004 to 2021. The grants seek to reduce economic and social disparities in the EEA and to strengthen bilateral relations between donor and recipient countries. In addition to good results in the beneficiary countries – such as support for civil society and as a counter-move against authoritarian forces – the grants show positive effects for Norway, according to the review. The report was commissioned by Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The trade union movement as negotiators of a social contract

Friday, 06 January 2023

This article provides new perspectives on the relationship between state and citizen and the role of trade unions in African petro-states. Nigerian trade unions have been crucial in recurring protests against the dismantling of petrol subsidies, and Camilla Houeland suggests that the protests are arenas for the exercise of and demands for deeper citizenship related to civil, economic and political rights. In this, the trade unions act as a mediator between the state and citizens, and thereby confirm their relevance.

How to strengthen the Nordic working life model facing the future of work

Tuesday, 22 November 2022

Focusing on collective bargaining coverage and the varieties of labour market regulation in the Nordic countries, this paper about ways to strengthen the Nordic working life models is written by Jon Erik Dølvik to serve as the basis for discussion on a Nordic labour minister meeting in Oslo, November 2022. Building on an earlier seminar with Nordic scholars, the project was initiated by the Norwegian Ministry of Labour and Inclusion, with support from the Nordic Council of Ministers.