A meeting place for research, dialogue, and debate on democracy, work, and freedom of expression – at a time when democratic values are under pressure. Together, we explore how democratic principles can be defended and strengthened, both in the workplace and in society.
At the Work Research Institute (AFI), we are establishing the Labour and Democracy Hub – a space for research, dialogue, and public debate on democracy, work, and freedom of expression.
Norway is often highlighted as one of the world’s most democratic countries, largely due to our labour and societal model based on cooperation, social dialogue, employee participation, and welfare. However, democracy cannot be taken for granted. Today, we see signs that workers’ influence is declining and that the space for open expression is narrowing. At the same time, democracy faces new challenges in light of shifting political and security frameworks, increased geopolitical tensions, and a more complex threat landscape.
The Labour and Democracy Hub brings together researchers, employer and employee organizations, politicians, civil society actors, decision-makers, international partners, and engaged citizens – to share knowledge, foster learning, engage in dialogue, and challenge one another. We aim to communicate research, create spaces for critical discussion, and develop new ideas – all with the goal of strengthening both knowledge and democracy, as well as freedom of expression and participation in the workplace and in society at large.
Collaboration
The Labour and Democracy Hub will host seminars, workshops, and public debates. Many of these events will be organized in collaboration with, among others, Norsk PEN and Norsk Arbeidslivsforum (NALF), addressing key questions about how democracy can be preserved and revitalized in our time.
