Using welfare as a prism, Religion and Welfare in Europe explores regional conceptions and variations in welfare and religion across Europe. Methodological approaches to research and practice draw thematic comparisons on these issues using case studies focused on gendered and minority perspectives as they relate to the varied provision of social welfare in selected European countries. Contributors offer comparative insights on majority-minority relations concerning practices, patterns and mechanisms of social welfare provision, explaining how these lead to conflict, cohesion or - as is so often the case - the grey area in between. The book will be of interest not only to religion and social policy researchers, but to welfare practitioners and policy advisors with a particular interest in the interaction between religion, social welfare, minorities and gender.

Religion and welfare in Europe compares regional conceptions and variations of welfare in relation to national religious traditions across key parts of Europe. Using comparative case studies focusing on gender and minority perspectives, the book examines the transition from research to practical policy recommendations, highlighting the similarities and differences between selected European countries.