Welfare Systems And Labour Markets [What Think Tanks Are Thinking]

The welfare systems and labour markets of EU member states have been under severe stress during the recent recession which has seen high unemployment and increased poverty rates. In response, many countries have launched structural reforms in these areas in an attempt to promote economic growth and reduce the persistently high unemployment as well as to lower the pressure on public finances from ageing populations. Social protection and inclusion is a priority for the European Union. In its Europe 2020 strategy, the European Commission sets targets to lift at least 20 million people out of poverty and social exclusion and to increase employment of the population aged 20-64 to 75%.

This note offers a selection of recent studies by some of the major think tanks and research institutes analysing the state of welfare system and labour markets in the EU as well as reforms needed to overhaul them.

Written by Marcin Grajewski.