Non-standard work in the Nordics

Most Nordic labour market and welfare state models are shaped around the notion of the standard full-time open-ended contract. However, the recent development in non-standard work (NSW) may challenge these institutions. In this TemaNord report, we analyse the recent development of NSW within the context of the Nordic models. We draw on Nordic Labour Force Survey data to map the recent development in the well-known forms of NSW, and through in-depth case studies, we explore emerging NSW practices and policy responses. There has been a fairly stable development in NSW across the Nordics, but the sector specific statistics and case studies display significant changes beneath this still surface. We find examples of novel policy responses to these developments, but the corona crisis also revealed gaps in the Nordic social- and employment protection regarding emerging forms of NSW.