What are the most important policies to help individuals when faced with contingencies such as illness, unemployment, old age, and child care? And how do policies to address social risks differ across countries or change over time? Traditionally, social policy has been regarded as an area that almost exclusively exists at the national level. Yet recent developments are challenging traditional notions of social policy as it increasingly transcends national boundaries.
This seminar provides an introduction to the study of comparative social policy by also including the international dimension. It gives an overview of the various global patterns and examines the trajectories of reforms, their causes, and their consequences. We start by conceptualizing the Welfare State, internationalization/Europeanization, and major historical developments. Then, different analytical and theoretical perspectives on explaining social policy-making based on national and international factors are addressed. Finally, we discuss the reform trajectories of various social policy areas such as labour markets, pensions, and health care by applying our analytical framework.
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to critically describe and explain changes and current challenges in the field of internationalized social policy. To receive 6 credits for the course, you are expected to read the literature, actively participate in seminar discussions, and pass the final exam.
