Abstract:
The purpose of this paper is to explore the way in which the developments of the last decade have altered the nature of the structure of European welfare systems. Up until recently, it was accepted that welfare systems in the EU could be characterized under four general headings: 'Anglo-Saxon,' 'Continental, 'Scandinavian,' and 'Southern,' although the exact titles and countries included varied among studies. The characteristics of these different regimes can readily be summarized and compared under what is described as the 'welfare triangle' (see Figure 1, which is adapted from Muffels, et al.) although other widely used classifications exist. However, this neat four-way division is being disturbed by three main factors. Most obviously there are 12 new member states, drawn primarily from eastern and central Europe, who have joined the EU since 2004. Second, welfare regimes have been subjected to forces of globalization and integration. Indeed, the EU has been encouraging the process of mutual learning through the Open Method of Coordination, which applies in this area. This has contributed to countries adopting some of the better ideas from the neighbours and thus blurring the boundaries. Last, as pointed by Schelkle, welfare systems are not homogeneous. Countries do not necessarily approach education and health the same way that they approach employment, disability and old age. There is a variety even in the provision of public services, such as libraries, transport, and public open spaces in a single country. It this therefore necessary to provide a reassessment of the position. It is not the purpose of this paper to provide a definitive classification but to ensure that the range of current approaches is clear. The paper is a contribution to the RECON project which is investigating the whole range of public policy for the likely forms of democracy that may exist in the EU in the future. Hence, it seeks out to set out the range of welfare regimes that need to be evaluated.