Privatisation against the European Social Model - A Critique of European Policies and Proposals for Alternatives

This book presents a comprehensive overview and critical analysis of the processes of liberalisation and privatisation, and their consequences for economic performance, social cohesion and political democracy in the European Union. It examines the main drivers and the various theoretical rationales for privatisation in the context of different schools of thinking. It argues on the basis of broad empirical evidence that privatisation in Europe, particularly the ongoing privatisation of social services, undermines the basic elements of the different social models that have developed in Europe. These arguments are supported by a number of in-depth case studies, with specific focus on health care, education and finance. The authors of this volume advance from this critique and explore the basic requirements for a progressive public sector and its role for economic, social and democratic development. This book will be indispensable reading for all interested in Economic Policy, Public Sector Economics, European Integration and Political Science.

Introduction: Privatisation and the Crisis of Social Europe PART I: PRIVATISATION IN THE EU: PROCESS AND DISCUSSION – AN OVERVIEW Privatisation in Western Europe Privatisation in the Central and East European Countries Finance as Driver of Privatisation Theoretical Approaches to Explaining and Understanding Privatisation The European Social Models: Contours of the Discussion PART II: CASE STUDIES Privatisation in the Industrial Sector Liberalisation in Network Industries Privatisation and Marketisation of Health Care Systems in Europe Privatisation of Education Privatisation of Pensions Bank Liberalisation and Privatisation Privatisation Trajectories in Europe: A Cross – Sector View PART III: PERSPECTIVES The Impact of Privatisation and Liberalisation of Public Services on the European Social Model Elements of a Progressive European Social Model The Role of the Public Sector in a Progressive Construction of Europe Social Actors – Trade Unions and Social Movements