NFU Explores AI and the Future of Work at Oslo Conference
The Nordic Finance Unions recently hosted a two-day conference on the role of Artificial Intelligence in the workplace. Held in Oslo on November 18–19, the event brought together 50 participants from across the Nordic countries, including shop stewards, trade union staff, and political appointees. The conference explored pressing questions about how AI is transforming the workplace and what it means for workers and their rights.
Shaping AI’s Role in the Workplace
Central to the discussions were topics such as the growing impact of algorithmic management and the need for trade unions to prepare for its challenges. Participants explored strategies to ensure workers are not only protected but also empowered. The sessions dove into how unions can play a proactive role in shaping AI’s implementation in the workplace rather than reacting to its impacts.
Diverse Perspectives From Leading Experts
The two days featured a mix of expert presentations, union-led project showcases, and interactive breakout sessions. Speakers brought diverse perspectives on AI and its implications for industries. Notable speakers included:
- Anastasia Varava from SEBx discussed AI’s transformative potential in banking,
- Alf Gunnar Andersen, the founder of the fintech company Horde, shared insights on innovation in finance.
- Kasper Edwards from the Danish Technical University provided case examples of AI integration in companies,
- Sonia Bastigkeit Ericstam, PhD student from Stockholm University, examined the legal implications of AI for labour rights.
- Bugge Holm Hansen from the Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies explored the long-term implications of AI in workplaces
- Tomas Lehtinen from the City of Helsinki highlighted public sector applications.
- Dr Christina Colclough, founder of The Why Not Lab, inspired attendees with her vision for ethical AI practices and worker empowerment
- Mikko Vastela from LähiTapiola shared insights from the insurance sector.
Union-Led Contributions
NFU’s affiliates added rich perspectives to the discussions. Hanna Wallinder, Policy Officer Forena and Susanne Lindberg, Vice President Forena, shared findings from their report on AI in Sweden’s insurance sector and their handbook on AI ethics. Lars Øystein Eriksen, Special Advisor at Finansforbundet Norway, presented insights from a report released in November on algorithmic governance and co-determination. From Finland, Viivi Osala introduced The Future Dialogue, a collaborative project between social partners focusing on generative AI. Finally, Steen Lund Olsen, Vice Chairmen of Finansforbundet Denmark, discussed AI’s influence on working in finance.
Collaborative Workshops and Strategic Foresight
Interactive workshops were a key part of the conference, offering participants the chance to engage in strategic foresight exercises. These sessions encouraged reflection on how to apply the insights gained during the conference, fostering actionable strategies for unions to address AI-related challenges and opportunities. The exchange of union-led projects further enriched the discussions, fostering closer collaboration.
Moving Forward
While the conference provided valuable insights, it also underscored the significant hurdles that remain in creating an inclusive, fair, and responsible use of AI in workplaces. Ensuring that workers’ rights are prioritised in the face of rapid technological advancement will require continued collaboration, innovation, and vigilance.
