Policymakers, academics, and business leaders from around the world will convene in Reykjavík on April 16–17 for the fourth annual Wellbeing Economy Forum, an international event focused on rethinking how economic success is defined and measured.

Hosted at the Harpa Concert Hall, the forum is organised by Iceland’s Directorate of Health with support from the European Union. It has quickly become a key platform for global dialogue on building economic systems that prioritise human and environmental wellbeing alongside traditional financial indicators.

Rethinking Economic Success

This year’s theme, “The Power of Wellbeing – Redefining Success,”reflects a growing international movement to move beyond gross domestic product (GDP) as the primary measure of progress. Instead, the forum highlights broader indicators such as health, equality, sustainability, and quality of life.

The concept of a “wellbeing economy” challenges conventional economic models by placing people and the planet at the centre of decision-making. Advocates argue that such an approach can lead to more resilient societies and sustainable long-term prosperity.

A Global Platform for Collaboration

The forum brings together a diverse international audience, including politicians, policymakers, academics, and practitioners, to exchange ideas and develop solutions for pressing global challenges such as climate change, public health, and social inequality.

Through panel discussions, collaborative sessions, and case studies, participants will explore how wellbeing-focused policies can strengthen communities, improve governance, and support sustainable development.

Iceland’s President, Halla Tómasdóttir, serves as patron of the forum, while Dóra Guðrún Guðmundsdóttir, Director of Public Health, leads the event.

From Dialogue to Action

Beyond discussion, organisers emphasize the forum’s role as a catalyst for real-world change. The event is part of the broader JA PreventNCD initiative, a European collaboration aimed at reducing non-communicable diseases and addressing health inequalities through coordinated policy action.

As global challenges intensify, the Wellbeing Economy Forum positions itself as more than just a conference, it is a space for developing practical strategies to reshape economies so they better serve both people and the planet.

Source: Wellbeingforum