Social Insecurity: Benefits and Services

Abstract

A recent comparative study of Nordic states described what was known as the Nordic welfare model as having the following characteristics (Kautto 1999 p. 13):

• The scope of public social policy is large

• An emphasis on full employment, accompanied by active labour market measures

• A high degree of universalism

• Income security based upon flat-rate and earning-related benefits

• High social expenditure as a proportion of GDP and high taxation

• Low income inequality

• Gender equality

Sweden certainly conformed to these criteria prior to the 1990s and had been much admired for the high value of its social benefits and the comprehensiveness and quality of its state-run services.

Welfare and the People’s Home in the words’ correct meaning no longer exist in Sweden. It is a finished chapter in Swedish history.

(Arne Thorén 1997)¹