LABOR.A® 202615. September
How can we shape the future of work? What future scenarios can we think of? What can we do today to achieve fairness, solidarity, and good work tomorrow?
LABOR.A® is the annual hybrid conference on the work of the future organized by the Hans-Böckler-Stiftung. Its ninth edition will be held on September 15, 2026. We will open a space to think forward together and, as a strong and diverse network, develop ideas for shaping the future worlds of work.
»HUMAN« - WHAT IS YOUR CONTRIBUTION?
Our 2026 theme, HUMAN, puts the spotlight on a key reference point for shaping the work environments of the future. For some things are missing in the current debates: A clear commitment to humanity as the basic tenet of democratic action. The central importance of humane conditions. The potential of human skills and abilities to shape our future, innovation, and happiness. The firm prioritization of the question how decisions impact people – and sometimes humankind as a whole.
We look forward to finding out how you will engage with this theme. The deadline for submissions is April 13, 2026.
ABOUT LABOR.A®
LABOR.A® is the Hans-Böckler-Stiftung’s hybrid conference on the future of work. It has been held annually since 2018. The one-day event reaches some 2,000 people who bring a wide range of perspectives and interests to questions around the work of the future. In 2026, it will once again be possible to experience all program items live at Cafe Moskau in Berlin and online. LABOR.A® aims to engage with and move forward current debates on the transformation of work, identify visions of the future, and connect stakeholders.
WITH YOU!
LABOR.A® is a collaborative project. The conference program is co-created with partner organizations from academia, trade unions, and civil society who have submitted applications in response to the Hans-Böckler-Stiftung’s Call for Participation. Together, we stand for progressive ideas, balance of power, and a dialogue based on facts. LABOR.A® is a dialogue platform for people who shape the diverse world of work: in companies, via platforms, as freelancers and self-employed individuals, in different sectors and at different organizational levels. At the municipal, state, and federal levels, in Europe and globally.
WORKS COUNCILS, YOUTH AND TRAINEE REPRESENTATIVES & CO.
The conference imparts knowledge necessary for the activities of the works council in accordance with Section 37(6) of the German Works Constitution Act (BetrVG), Section 179(8) of the German Social Code (SGB) IX, and Section 65(1) of the German Works Constitution Act (BetrVG). Participation is free of charge.
ACCESSIBILITY
There is step-free access to the event locations at Cafe Moskau; accessible bathrooms are available. Selected program items will be translated into German Sign Language (DGS). If you have any questions or individual needs, please feel free to contact the »Arbeit der Zukunft» team at arbeit-der-zukunft@boeckler.de.
Impressions from LABOR.A®
A best-of selection of photos can be found in our photo gallery below.