Ageing in working life

The Government tasked Forte, in its 2026 appropriation directions (regleringsbrev), with producing a knowledge overview of working life for older people. The focus includes, among other things, opportunities to work longer.

Ageism refers to prejudice or negative attitudes toward older people, which can lead to age discrimination in working life. Older individuals may miss out on jobs, skills development, or promotion, according to the Equality Ombudsman.

The Government has tasked Forte with analysing research needs related to ageing in working life. The assignment is part of the 2026 appropriation directions. It also forms part of the national programme for research on working life, which is producing a knowledge overview in 2026.

Focus of the knowledge overview

The analysis will focus on older women’s and men’s opportunities to remain in the workforce, as well as involuntary loneliness as a consequence of losing a workplace community upon retirement. An important aspect is to examine differences between women and men.

The assignment is due to be reported in September 2026.