Abstract:
Sweden and France have two of the highest levels of public social spending in
Europe with each country exemplifying a different welfare state model. While there are
some similarities in their labor market and social policies, the differences have
contributed to discrepancies between the two countries in terms of socio-economic
inequality. This study features the most recent data available to analyze factors
contributing to socio-economic inequality, specifically income inequality, labor market
policies, fiscal sustainability, and-educational systems. It compares visual
representations of this data to reports by governing bodies and international
organizations. Findings indicate that Sweden generally has lower levels of inequality
and better well-being than France, but not in all cases. Sweden faces high
unemployment for the low skilled and migrants, as well as problematic educational
outcomes. France's social transfers are poorly targeted. Its government has struggled to
control its increasing debt, and is facing calls to reduce its social services. This research
is significant because inequality is correlated with poverty, leads to social exclusion,
and can even curb economic growth.
Description:
47 pages. A thesis presented to the Department of International Studies and the Clark Honors College of the University of Oregon in partial fulfillment of the requirements for degree of Bachelor of Arts, Spring 2016.