Sozialpolitik#

Welfare Policy: the origins of welfare policy in Austria date back to the 19th century. At that time the fight against poverty was seen as one aspect of welfare and law and order policies. The precisely defined principles of welfare policy are still valid (e.g. Social Insurance for all persons with a paid job). In the Second Republic there is broad political consensus on welfare policy. The government, the Interest Groups and political parties play a leading role (in the context of the social partnership system) in defining welfare policy objectives and the measures to be implemented in pursuing them. Welfare policy deals with three areas: social risks, working conditions and the labour market.

Due to changes in demographical structure and activity rates (age pyramid, increasing unemployment of elderly employees) and due to the changes in labour market conditions and economic circumstances, the financing of welfare benefits (e.g. pension insurance schemes) is becoming increasingly difficult.

Literature#