Lessons from the Nordic Countries – ‘Basic Building Blocks’ for an Enlarged Common European Labour Market

Abstract

Abstract: This article presents experience with the first three decades of formalised common labour market arrangements in the Nordic countries. It traces the historical roots of Nordic co-operation, and examines how early initiatives were stimulated to develop free movement for workers and a more open Nordic labour market during the inter-war years. Post-war momentum towards the establishment of a common Nordic labour market is then considered, with a focus on the 1954 Agreement laying down the basic framework and the subsequent revised Agreement of 1982 which now underpins the modern Nordic labour market arrangements. Some observations are offered in relation to the creation of basic building blocks for free movement of workers and integrated labour market administration, set against the recent backdrop of ‘enlargement’ of the European Union.