Established in 1998 in Bonn, Germany, IZA is a private independent economic research institute focused on the analysis of global labor markets. It operates an international network of about 1,100 economists and researchers spanning across more than 40 countries.

Based on academic excellence and an ambitious publication strategy, IZA serves as a place of communication between academic science and political practice.

The institute provides a wide array of publications and events, contributes its findings to public debates, and advises policymakers on labor market issues. Headed by Professor Klaus F. Zimmermann, IZA is a non-profit organization supported by the Deutsche Post Foundation.