News from the 2026 Work and Family Researchers Network Conference

In June, researchers from around the world gathered in Montreal for the 8th Biennial Work and Family Researchers Network conference.

The 2026 WFRN Conference theme Centering Care Across the Life Course focused attention on how to place care at the core of work, family, and policy conversation, ensuring that care and caregiving responsibilities are supported equitably. More than 500 scholars and stakeholders registered to discuss the latest research as well as effective policies and practices that contribute to enhanced lives and improved performance.

Ito Peng participated in the conference’s Presidential Plenary. The conversation explored the evolution of caregiving needs evolve across the life course, from early childhood to elder care and beyond. Panelists discussed policies and practices—from supranational agreements to local workplace initiatives—that support well-being and equitable caregiving.

The session concluded with the presentation of the 2026 WFRN Awards, and Care Economies in Context team member Melissa Milkie was one of three people to be honoured with an Ellen Galinsky Generative Researcher Award, along with Sarah Flood and Liana Sayer. Congratulations!