The Nordic Centre of Excellence Programme on Welfare Research (2007-2012)

The Nordic Centre of Excellence (NCoE) Programme on Welfare Research will, in the space of five years, study the historical evolution of the Nordic welfare model and its ability to adapt to changing external circumstances. Co-financed by NordForsk and several Nordic national science funding bodies, the program will receive a total funding of 75 million NOK.

Combining competitiveness and growth with a high level of social services, the so-called Nordic model is attracting international attention. For example, Nordic citizens are among those who are least at risk of poverty and have the highest life expectancy in Europe. However, the Nordic model is under pressure. Against the backdrop of globalisation, European integration, immigration, the ageing society and increased individualisation, many have predicted the death of the Nordic welfare state. There is consequently a need for research in order to assess if the Nordic welfare model can renew itself in the face of global competition.

An NCoE is defined as a well-structured and well-managed network of existing research teams from at least three different Nordic countries forming a virtual centre with joint objectives. The two Nordic Centres of Excellence (NCoE) on Welfare are aimed at increasing the quality, efficiency, competitiveness and visibility of Nordic welfare research through enhanced collaboration in the Nordic region. The Nordic countries host several outstanding research groups in the field of welfare, but since these ‘hot spots of research’ are scattered in many countries, their international visibility is often limited. Through the NCoE Programme critical mass is built and valuable synergies created.

The Programme has two Centres of Excellence:

The Nordic Welfare State - historical foundations and future challenges (NordWel)









Reassessing the Nordic welfare model










Contact person at NordForsk:
Senior adviser Harry Zilliacus
E-mail: harry.zilliacus@nordforsk.org
Phone +47 94 83 86 81


A Programme Memorandum describes the NCoE Welfare process and outlines the area of research.