9–11 November | Ghent, Belgium

HRM in Times of “Geo-Digital” Uncertainties.
Hosted by Vlerick Business School & Ghent University

Thank you for three wonderful days in Ghent!

A big thank you to everyone who joined us for this year’s Dutch HRM Network conference.

We would like to thank all our speakers, presenters and participants for their contributions and for making the conference such a success. It was a pleasure to welcome everyone for three days of interesting discussions, knowledge sharing and networking.

A very special thank you to everyone from Ghent University and Vlerick Business School who helped make the conference possible!

2026 Conference Theme:
HRM in Times of “Geo-Digital” Uncertainties.

Navigating “Geo-Digital” Uncertainties

On the geopolitical front, armed conflicts, migration flows, climate-related displacement, and the resurgence of protectionist policies create unpredictable operating environments for organisations (Kerwin, 2020; Pedersen & Jensen, 2024). Rising trade barriers and shifting international alliances impact labour mobility, supply chains, and social cohesion (Justino & Samarin, 2024; Sarolta, 2023). These dynamics challenge labour market stability and demand HR strategies that are agile, inclusive, and responsive to cross-border realities (Junita, 2021). HR professionals must navigate issues such as displaced talent, ethical global sourcing, and the reconfiguration of workforces across regions. Meanwhile, political polarisation and fragile democracies threaten workforce mobility, diversity initiatives, and global collaboration, increasing pressure on companies to act responsibly across international contexts (Javidan et al., 2023; Sarolta, 2023).

At the same time, digital technologies are transforming the very nature of work, management, and human interaction. Generative AI, algorithmic management, data-driven HR tools, and virtual collaboration platforms are not only redefining how work is done but also raising critical concerns about surveillance, bias, and transparency (Griep et al., 2021). While digital tools offer unprecedented opportunities for efficiency and scalability, they also demand new ethical frameworks and competencies to navigate emerging challenges. Questions about algorithmic fairness, the implications of remote work, and the humanisation of digital processes are central to contemporary HR debates (Guest et al., 2022; Mariani et al., 2023).

To capture the intertwined nature of today’s challenges, we introduce the term “geo-digital” uncertainties, referring to the complex interplay between geopolitical turbulence and technological transformation. Together, these forces place unprecedented demands on HRM, calling for organisational transformation that aligns workforce strategies with emerging global realities. To respond effectively, HR professionals must embrace innovative approaches to inclusion, well-being, talent management, workforce planning, and organisational resilience. As such, this conference invites academics and practitioners to explore how HRM can lead the way in navigating “geo-digital” uncertainties—not merely reacting to them but anticipating their impact and shaping responses that align with democratic values, sustainability, and social justice.

Best Paper Award Winner: Giverny De Boeck, Sanne Nijs, en Hayley Ina Moore

Best Dissertation Award Winner: Isabeau Van Strydonck – Ghent University