The Politics of Unemployment in Europe

'Exploring how public policy has developed in response to the increasingly structural nature of unemployment has been one of the most daunting tasks for European social scientists. This volume moves the investigation forward in providing detailed and stimulating documentation of how policies vary within institutional contexts, how they practically affect the life conditions of the unemployed, and how collective action and mobilization can change their course. Drawing on their expertise, the authors convincingly argue that unemployment is not only an economic and social issue, but a fundamental civic challenge for Europe. This collection will be immensely valuable to policy analysts and stake-holders.' Richard Balme, Sciences Po, Paris, France and School of Government, Peking University, China 'Although this book takes a sociological or social policy approach , many readers of this journal will find it a valuable collection. For those interested in social movements, social policy, or unemployment, this collection is a significant contribution.' Labour History Review