IZA is an independent economic research institute that conducts research in labor economics and offers evidence-based policy advice on labor market issues. Supported by the Deutsche Post Foundation, IZA runs the world's largest network of economists, whose research provides answers to the global labor market challenges of our time. Our key objective is to build bridges between academic research, policymakers and society.

Mission: Science at the service of society

Work has a major impact on our lives. We spend much of our lifetime engaged in productive activities. Whether our labor transforms into wealth or improves well-being, however, largely depends on the institutional setting. This is why scientific findings on the functioning of labor markets are of great importance to all those who play a role in shaping the various characteristics of work: voters, unions, employers, and politicians.