ASPO 25A29 - Comparative Social Policy in Europe

This course delves into the multifaceted landscape of social policies across Europe, examining the diverse approaches taken by various nations to address social welfare challenges. The course begins by providing a foundational understanding of social policy concepts and theories. It then transitions into an in-depth analysis of the evolution of welfare systems in Europe, from the post-war period to the present day. Emphasis is placed on understanding the historical legacies, institutional frameworks, and ideological underpinnings that influence the design and restructuring of social policies in different European countries. The course finally delves into the comparative examination of key areas of social policy, including family policy, labour market policy, healthcare and long-term care.

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Lecture and discussion of assigned readings (1 or 2 assigned readings per session).