Challenges for the Nordic Welfare Model in the Era of Globalization

Join us for a presentation by Dr. Ivan Harsløf, visiting scholar to the SSW and Associate Professor at Oslo Metropolitan University in Norway.

From the early 1990s and onwards, social inequalities in the Nordic countries have risen at a notably higher rate than in other OECD countries. Although inequalities are still comparatively low, this development has raised concerns about the Nordic welfare model's longer-term ability to maintain comprehensive redistribution in the context of globalization.

With a focus on Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden, the presentation will focus on the main features of the Nordic welfare model. These include an active social state, a large public sector, an orientation towards universalism and gender equality, and democratic-corporatist governance structures.

The presentation examines how the interrelated trends of globalization, technological changes, and demographic changes are putting a strain on the Nordic welfare states. Particularly it considers how these megatrends are impacting evolving new social risks. These types of risks—often referred to as postindustrial social risks—are reproduced and aggravated across generations and they are increasingly affecting low-educated groups. Against this background, the presentation finally explores different scenarios for the future of the Nordic welfare states. 

Lunch will be provided to all in-person attendees to this event. The presentation will include time for Q&A.

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