Social policy, inequality and health – symposium in honour of Professor Johan Fritzell

Following a historical overview of the existence of health inequalities since the beginning of human history by Professor Eero Lahelma, the first session, Social policy and inequalities, featured presentations by Professors Joakim Palme, Marta Szebehely, Olli Kangas, Tine Rostgaard, Espen Dahl, and Jon Kvist. 

It was highlighted that Johan Fritzell's role in advancing comparative welfare state research and deepening our understanding of how policy shapes social and health inequalities across societies was greatly appreciated.

The second session, Life course, inequalities and health, included contributions from Professors Mikael Rostila, Marja Aartsen, Marijke Veenstra, and Marja Jylhä. Their reflections highlighted the significant impact of Johan Fritzell's contributions on the field of life course research, particularly in the context of how life transitions and inequalities can accumulate and influence health in later life.

Beyond his scientific achievements, speakers repeatedly emphasised Johan Fritzell's personal qualities – his generosity, intellectual curiosity, and quiet leadership – which have left a lasting imprint on the research environments he has helped build.

The event concluded with Johan Fritzell's own reflections, followed by closing remarks from colleagues at Karolinska Institutet, affirming a shared sense that his journey is far from complete and that many look forward to continuing it alongside him.

The symposium took place on 26 August was supported by the Swedish Research Council for Health, Working Life and Welfare (Forte) and The Strategic Research Area in Epidemiology and Biostatistics - SFOepi.