Summary
Contents
Subject index
Bringing together a discussion of the theories and techniques of comparative policy analysis and a description of current developments in selected welfare state regimes, European Welfare States provides an accessible overview of issues concerning European welfare states. In particular, it provides: - an overview of the development of welfare states in Europe; - a discussion of key issues including welfare state theories, the role of globalization, gender and the welfare state; welfare typologies; and the role of public opinion; - a detailed account of recent developments and current challenges in five European welfare states; and - a detailed account of the key challenges facing European welfare states and possible future directions for welfare models including the role of the European Union in the development of social policy. This book is illustrated throughout with student-friendly features such as case-studies, chapter summaries, questions for discussion and guides for further reading. With a flowing narrative and clear structure the book is an invaluable text for undergraduates taking courses in comparative social policy. It will also be useful for students in related disciplines such as public policy, social welfare, politics and international relations.
Challenges Facing European Welfare States
Challenges Facing European Welfare States
This chapter looks at the current and future challenges facing European welfare states. In particular, it looks at five key areas: demographic changes – especially the ageing of the population and fertility decline; economic and labour market change; budgetary limitations; changes in gender roles and household composition; and EU (and EMU) membership and further expansion. These issues are all, to a greater or lesser extent, interlinked and changes in one area may contribute to (or cause) changes in another. Likewise changes in one area may exacerbate or alleviate changes arising in another. This chapter outlines the issues that arise. The key responses that have been put forward or which are under discussion are outlined in the ...
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