Research Handbook on Social Policy and Employment

This compelling Handbook explores how social policies have been adapted and remodelled in response to transformations in work and employment in the twenty-first century. It outlines the history of the welfare-work relationship, assesses the current state of the global workforce and provides theoretical and practical analyses of the work-employment-social policy relationship. Leading experts review the state-of-the-art in the work-welfare nexus and explore new avenues for future research. Adopting an interdisciplinary approach, chapters consider young people in the labour market, unemployment insurance, free trade agreements and employment relations as well as the future of work and the welfare state. They also address core aspects of social protection and employment services, including the policy impact of enduring, current and future challenges. The Handbook sheds light on existing social policy ideas and initiatives which can be used to develop better living conditions for all. This authoritative book is an essential resource for scholars and students of comparative social policy, political science, the sociology of work and labour policy. It is also an engaging and informative read for policymakers and civil servants working in employment relations, as well as welfare professionals and civil society actors.