The Unnecessary European Social Model

This briefing note from Chatham House argues that neither the economic, nor the cultural and social case has been made for greater integration. The report, by Benedicta Marzinotto, underlines the fact that whilst Europe has seen a sustained growth in economic integration there has been no corresponding harmonization of welfare systems. Indeed national specificities between EU member states are still prominent. The report argues that while many European countries need urgent changes within their welfare systems, recommended reforms should be flexible and tailored to individual states.

Chatham House was formally known until 2004 as the Royal Institute of International Affairs. Chatham House is one of the world's leading organisations for the analysis of international issues.