Social Insurance Administration
Nordic Directors-General of Social Insurance Institutions in Iceland
16th October 2026
At a meeting of the Nordic directors-general of social insurance, held in Iceland at the beginning of October, it became clear how similar the challenges facing these institutions are. Chief among them are artificial intelligence and digital transformation, the sustainability of the social insurance systems, constant changes in the operating environment, new skills requirements and the fight against incorrect allowance payments and fraud.
Representatives at the meeting of the directors general of the Nordic social insurance institutions on 1–2 October 2026, organised by TR (Social Insurance Administration).
Artificial intelligence and digital transformation
The discussion of artificial intelligence and digital transformation focused both on how new technology could be harnessed and on the opportunities it offers to rethink the institutions' processes from the ground up. In many respects, the social insurance institutions face the same questions regarding accountability, security, legal issues and how the technology can be used so that it delivers real value for users and for society.
Rapid changes in the institutions' operating environment were one of the shared concerns. Demands for faster and better services are growing alongside rapid technological development. However, the discussion also highlighted the need for a clearer long-term vision and policy direction from the government. The institutions need to know where they are heading and within what framework they are to use new technology, so that the changes deliver the intended benefits.
From technology to societal challenges
The meeting also examined the process from illness or withdrawal from the labour market to rehabilitation and a possible return to work. Early intervention and cooperation between social insurance institutions, the healthcare system and employers were among the key points discussed in relation to this process. The situation of young people not in employment or education was also discussed specifically, drawing on the experience of NAV in Norway in this regard.
The aim of the dialogue between the directors-general of the Nordic social insurance institutions is, among other things, for the collaboration to lead both to greater knowledge sharing and to more targeted cooperation on the issues the countries have in common.
The Social Insurance Administration organised the meeting; the directors-general of the Nordic social insurance institutions meet annually, and the meeting is held in Iceland every five years.