Social security is under pressure. Although public support for the welfare state remains strong, it is becoming increasingly difficult to effectively strengthen economic security for those at the lower end of society. Social risks are becoming concentrated among specific groups, activation policies have achieved only limited success, and social solidarity has become more fragile. This book analyses the state of social security in the Netherlands, consistently comparing it with the Belgian experience. The analysis shows that the challenges are not merely the result of shortcomings in policy design, but are rooted in deeper structural changes: a changing labour market, population ageing, migration, and increasing social stratification. As a result, social security risks not only losing its protective function but also becoming a catalyst for social tensions. Against this backdrop, this book explores the new normative principles and policy approaches needed to make the social security system fit for the future and to preserve its role as a cornerstone of economic security and social cohesion.

This book is included in DOAB.