The 9th International Conference «Work and Health» will take place on January 29 and 30, 2026 at the FHNW School of Social Work in Olten on the topic of «transforming work» and current challenges relating to sustainability, innovation and solidarity in the field of «work and health».
The focus is on current developments and challenges in the world of work resulting from far-reaching social, technological and ecological transformation processes.
Under the conference theme «transforming work», the effects of digitalization, artificial intelligence, demographic change and sustainability requirements on work organization, company structures and individual employment biographies will be addressed. The focus is on innovative potential as well as health burdens and organizational areas of tension.
The second focus area is dedicated to the topics of sustainability, innovation and solidarity. It sheds light on the operational and social challenges arising from technological changes, shortages of skilled workers and health risks – particularly with regard to qualification requirements, the compatibility of gainful employment and care work as well as socio-political issues of participation and equal opportunities.
The conference invites participants to discuss theoretical and empirical contributions from science, practice and politics and to develop new perspectives on the future of work and health.