The Nordic Refuge Conference 2026 is the fourth conference we organize: Rescuing Human Dignity – Hope, Borders, Belonging will take place at Suomen Raamattuopisto from 15–17 October 2026. The purpose of the conference is to foster networking, shared learning, and critical engagement with the latest developments in refugee ministry, migration studies, and human dignity work. The conference seeks to strengthen and expand Nordic cooperation by bringing together participants who face similar realities, challenges, and opportunities across the region.

Meet the organising team!

Behind the conference is a group of Nordic churches and organizations that all have an active commitment to integration. We have a joint Nordic programme committee and a local organiser group. The planning of this year’s conference is led by Petra31.

John Fredrik Wallace – Church of Norway

“The Church in Alver, north of Bergen, is an Evangelical Lutheran fellowship. Most residents of the municipality belong to this church, which is split into five parishes. We have diaconal projects in several parishes, one of which is also home to a regional reception centre. Current work includes language cafés and various cultural activities. We wish to develop this work further and expand our networks.”

Atle Eikeland – Church of Norway 

Working as a deacon in Søndre Follo prosti (Deanery), about 3o km south of Oslo.  The deanery contains three municipalities and 10 congregations and is quite diverse with both urban and rural districts. Ås, where my office is located, is the site of Norwegian Agricultural Univerisity and have an international flavour. Many refugees have settled in the area. I`m married, have two children and three grandchildren.

Enok Sørensen – Luthersk Mission Denmark

Married, 3 children, 5 grandchildren. I have lived and ministered as a missionary in Tanzania. Since 2002 ministered as a cross-cultural consultant, employed by DLM, which e.g. includes the following: 
– Inspire to and support volunteers to receive new arrivals well to Denmark, -on a human and spiritual level.
– Leading Bible study groups, including Al Massira groups.

Juan Castillo – Petra 31 – Pentecostal Church of Finland

I am one the pastors of the Pentecostal Church of Oulu, a member of the committee for multiculturality of the Finnish Pentecostal Church and a board member of the cooperative Petra31 that is actively working to help asylum seekers in different matters relating their faith. I’m married and a dad to four kids. I’m also a doctoral researcher at the Universidad de Murcia (Spain).

Jarkko Willman – Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland

I am a Pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Finland since 1997. I work with asylum seekers from the beginning of my ministry. During the last eight years I have been privileged to see many asylum seekers coming to Christ. It’s amazing how God works in our time! I believe that the Nordic connection in this ministry is very essential.

For privacy purposes some people cannot be named. We thank them for their efforts!

Few reasons why this conference is important:

1.⁠ ⁠Shared Values: The Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) share similar social, political, and cultural values such as democracy, human rights, equality, and sustainability. These shared values provide a strong foundation for cooperation. Not to forget the Christian principles of hospitality and justice. The aim of this conference is to expand our networks so we can help each other as we minister those in need.

2.⁠ ⁠Trust: There is a high level of trust among the Nordic countries, built over centuries of cooperation and mutual respect. Trust is essential for effective collaboration as it fosters open communication and the willingness to work together towards clear goals in relation to social justice, migration, evangelisation, and discipleship.

3.⁠ ⁠Similar Socio-Economic Models: Nordic countries have similar socio-economic models characterized by high levels of welfare, strong social safety nets, and progressive taxation systems. This similarity in approach makes it easier for us to understand each other’s perspectives and find common ground. Local churches and Christian national movements can benefit from networking and inspirational as well as informational events. We also experience fellowship that is comforting and encouraging.

4.⁠ ⁠Pragmatism: Our Nordic collaboration is pragmatic, focusing on concrete issues where cooperation can bring tangible benefits to asylum seekers, converted Christians, local churches and their leadership as well as Christian institutions and political bodies.

6.⁠ ⁠Size and Proximity: The relatively small size and geographic proximity of the Nordic countries make collaboration more manageable. It’s easier for us to coordinate policies, share best practices, and implement joint initiatives.

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Proverbs 31:8