Much has been written about the challenges Asian governments face in response to rapid socio-economic changes and the resulting social needs and welfare expectations. Indeed, heated debates have emerged when scholars in social development, social welfare and social policy conducted more systematic comparative research related to the diverse policy measures adopted by Asian governments: which welfare models or typologies best describe Asian cases after the 2008 global financial crisis?; how can contemporary social policy transformations in Asia be appropriately conceptualized?; are particular 'best practice' examples evolving in Asia and if so, can they be successfully transferred to enhance social welfare governance among Asian economies? This book combines contributions that address Asian government responses in the light of the above questions. In doing so, it revisits the broad theoretical literature on "policy transfer" and provides empirical examples to explore the spread of ideas, social policies and programmes across Asia from varying analytical and methodological perspectives. The chapters originally published as a special issue in the Journal of Asian Public Policy.

This fully updated edition of an essential introductory text offers a concise guide to the key structures and concepts in social policy and is now supplemented by unique and innovative digital content that adds depth and provides a truly integrated way of learning. It is accompanied by a digital app, which is free to download and use with the book, that includes short videos with commentary, interactive charts and 'unboxed' examples that expand key issues raised in the text, enabling students to engage more deeply with statistical information. The book draws on examples from around the world and focuses on explaining key terms and introducing key debates. Written by experienced authors and teachers, the text explores the five pillars of welfare; social security, employment, education, health and housing, and this new edition adds a further chapter providing an overview of other fields such as criminal justice, social care and family policy. This will be an invaluable resource for students new to social policy.