Summary
"Europe's social model - its system of
welfare and social protection - is regarded by many as the jewel in
the crown. It is what helps to give the European societies their
distinctive qualities of social cohesion and care for the
vulnerable. Over recent years, however, the social model has come
under great strain in many states within the European Union -
unemployment, for example, remains stubbornly high. The resulting
tensions have fuelled dissatisfaction with the European project as
a whole, culminating in the rejection of Europe's proposed new
constitution." "Reform of the social model is therefore a matter of
urgency. It has to go hand in hand with the quest to regenerate
economic growth. The weaker performers in Europe over the past few
years can learn a good deal from states that have coped more
effectively. But more radical changes need to be contemplated in
the face of the impact of globalization, rapidly increasing
cultural diversity and changing demography. The author argues that
the traditional welfare state needs to be rethought. We have to
bring lifestyle change into the heart of what 'welfare' means.
Moreover, environmental issues must be directly connected to other
citizenship obligations. These innovations have to be made at the
same time as Europe's competitive position is upgraded."--BOOK
JACKET.
