General information about the instituteUpdated: 03/05/2004

	Objectives of HIVA
	The research sectors

Objectives of HIVA

The Higher Institute for Labour Studies (HIVA) is a research institute attached to the Catholic University of Leuven (K.U.Leuven). It was founded in 1974 on the initiative of the university and the Christian labour movement (ACW).

HIVA's research activities are carried out in support of government policy and focus on problems facing employees, underprivileged and disadvantaged groups, social organisations and movements in society. The research activities are organised into four sectors: (1) Work and Organisation; (2) Education and Labour Market; (3) Social and Economic Policy; and (4) Sustainable Development. Each research sector adopts a multidisciplinary approach to its research activities. Over a period of almost 30 years, HIVA has built up a great stock of experience in many fields, and therefore not surprisingly enjoys national and international renown.

HIVA attaches importance not only to the quality of its research, but also to the wide dissemination of the knowledge and insights acquired through that research. This is achieved among other things through doctorates, publication of articles in scientific and other journals and the provision of 'customised' advice and expertise, for example in the area of business and personnel organisation, provision of help and services to disadvantaged groups, labour market policy, education, etc.

The Board Of Directors is made up of representatives from K.U.Leuven and the ACW. The day-to-day management is in the hands of the Management Committee.

The research sectors

HIVA's research activities are carried out in support of government policy and focus on problems facing employees, underprivileged and disadvantaged groups, social organisations and movements in society. The research activities are organised into four sectors: (1) Work and organisation, (2) Education and labour market, (3) Social and economic policy and (4) Sustainable development. Each research sector adopts a multidisciplinary approach to its research activities.

For more information, see the HIVA website