Conferences in Helsinki put focus on fair and healthy working lives
In September 2025, NIVA was proud to co-organise two conferences in Helsinki together with the Finnish Ministry of Social Affairs and Health and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment. Both events were arranged as part of the Finnish Presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers and brought together nearly 200 participants at the Scandic Marina Congress Centre.
Concerence on labour exploitation and work-related crime
The first conference focused on labour exploitation and work-related crime – challenges that do not stop at borders. Experts and practitioners gathered to discuss how to better identify and prevent practices such as social dumping, labour exploitation, and human trafficking. Central themes included the responsibilities of employers and contractors when labour is outsourced, and how to protect victims while keeping labour markets fair and competitive.
Gladys Cisneros, Chief for the Labour Migration Branch at International Labour Organization, was one of the keynote speakers at the conference. She was impressed by the participants’ commitment and the important discussions that took place during the day:
– The statistics may show relatively low levels of work-related crime in the Nordics, but research and discussions reveal there is still much to do. The region faces many of the same challenges as elsewhere. That’s why it is inspiring to see so many engaged individuals here today with the same goal, to create safe and fair work environments.
Conference on psychosocial working environment
The second conference addressed the psychosocial working environment. The message was clear – prevention must come first. Instead of merely reacting when problems emerge, workplaces need to identify and manage risks early in order to secure sustainable and healthy working lives. Participants shared knowledge, exchanged experiences, and expanded networks around how to foster supportive and resilient work environments across the Nordic–Baltic region.
Both conferences underlined the importance of collaboration across sectors and countries. By sharing insights and strengthening networks, the Nordic–Baltic region can continue to lead the way towards safe, fair, and healthy working environments.
Curious to know more about what was discussed at the events? The Nordic Labour Journal covered both conferences. Read the articles here:
