This book examines pressures for convergence and divergence in contemporary societies focusing on the rapidly changing relationship betwen work and welfare. The countries selected for in-depth comparative analysis are Germany, Spain, Sweden and the UK, each representative of different labour market and welfare regimes. Beginning with an overview of those departmenst in the post-second world war period which shed light on the different social and institutional structures, economic directions and policy orientations of the countries concerned, the book goes on to explore changing patterns of work and employment in particular in relation to labour market reforms, new forms of production and women's participation in paid work. In its last section, it looks at current issues of social policy in Europe, including gender and poverty. Integrating material from sociological perspectives on work and employment with comparative welfare analysis, feminist critiques and recent debates on social exclusion, the book will be of particular relevance and usefulness to students of European Studies, Sociology and Social Policy.

This book provides an up-to-date critical assessment of gender in Spain with reference to the key social and political fields. It addresses aspects of women's experience such as the public spheres of elective politics, public policy-making and the labour market. This is underpinned by an in-depth analysis of underlying dynamics and structures that contribute to shaping gender relations in Spain, including women's activism, the family and the state social security system.

This book provides an up-to-date critical assessment of gender in Spain with reference to the key social and political fields. It addresses aspects of women's experience such as the public spheres of elective politics, public policy-making and the labour market. This is underpinned by an in-depth analysis of underlying dynamics and structures that contribute to shaping gender relations in Spain, including women's activism, the family and the state social security system.