IZA is a bridge builder for research in labor economics. They narrow the distance between science and society, and transport relevant knowledge about the working world to the general public, political actors and economic players. IZA is the hub of a global network of scholars who work with them to create a sound economic understanding of how labor markets work and how labor market policies perform. They contribute to the future of labor research by supporting young scholars on their paths to becoming tomorrow’s leading academics.
IZA was initiated by the Deutsche Post Foundation in 1998. The institute is based in Bonn, Germany, where a team of expert researchers studies the future of work. They deliver answers about how to effectively safeguard employment and maintain social cohesion. IZA engages in fundamental research, scientific policy advice, and active transfer of knowledge. They are impartial and follow the rules of good academic practice in all their activities.
IZA is driven by the conviction that excellent research in labor economics is relevant to society. Making the meaning and implications of its findings visible is a core part of their mission. They therefore engage in a comprehensive transfer of knowledge that addresses various target groups within the triangle of politics, the public and the economy. This transfer includes transparent and impartial scientific policy advice. With own and third-party funding, they initiate projects with innovative content and methodology. At IZA, they are continually advancing their research agenda to enable them to provide well-supported answers to pressing societal challenges concerning the future of work.
The flagship of their science communication is the IZA World of Labor, a unique multimedia encyclopedia of current knowledge in labor economics created together with their expert contributors. Covering a broad range of often controversial labor market issues, it delivers concise surveys of research findings, which are accessible, well-balanced and policy-relevant. With their initiatives to provide matter-of-fact information on labor market issues to the public, IZA overcomes the widespread divide between practice and research, and helps prevent an erosion in the credibility of academic research.
