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8 Welfare state transformation in small open economies

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  • OBINGER, HERBERT
  • LEIBFRIED, STEPHAN
  • BOGEDAN, CLAUDIA
  • GINDULIS, EDITH
  • MOSER, JULIA
  • STARKE, PETER

Abstract

We examine whether a fundamental change in the core dimension of modern 20th century statehood, the welfare state, has become evident in response to changed exogenous and endogenous challenges. By combining quantitative and qualitative approaches we take stock of social policy development in four advanced welfare states – Austria, Denmark, New Zealand and Switzerland – over the last 30 years. Neither spending patterns nor structural changes support a ‘race to the bottom thesis’, according to which the changed environment of welfare state policies has led to a downward spiral in benefit provision. On the contrary, we show that social spending levels have risen, mainly due to a catch-up of former welfare state laggards. In structural terms, a blurring of welfare regimes can be observed. This twofold process can be described as dual convergence.

Suggested Citation

  • Obinger, Herbert & Leibfried, Stephan & Bogedan, Claudia & Gindulis, Edith & Moser, Julia & Starke, Peter, 2005. "8 Welfare state transformation in small open economies," European Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 13(S1), pages 161-185, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:eurrev:v:13:y:2005:i:s1:p:161-185_00
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    Cited by:

    1. Tanja A. Börzel & Thomas Risse, 2010. "Governance without a state: Can it work?," Regulation & Governance, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 4(2), pages 113-134, June.
    2. Starke, Peter, 2005. "Resilient or residual? From the wage earners' welfare state to market conformity in New Zealand," TranState Working Papers 22, University of Bremen, Collaborative Research Center 597: Transformations of the State.
    3. Gregory Shaffer, 2015. "How the World Trade Organization shapes regulatory governance," Regulation & Governance, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 9(1), pages 1-15, March.

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