Globalisation, Unification, and the German Welfare State

In: International social science journal: ISSJ, Band 52, S. 39-50

Abstract

Argues that globalization threatens the ability of states to continue providing for the economic & social security of their citizens. The neoliberal Zeitgeist that accompanies globalization has now carried over to the social democratic parties of Europe, which have moved toward thc political center. Convergence criteria imposed by the European Union to introduce monetary union have added to the downward pressure on European welfare states. The German Sozialstaat predates the development of modern welfare states & is thus firmly anchored in the political culture of the country. Nevertheless, high unemployment, the costs of unification, & concern over global economic competitiveness are taking their toll on the ability of Germany's government to continue funding social welfare schemes. Unification, in particular, has added enormously to public expenditures, while self-sustaining economic development is not in sight. 1 Table, 2 Photographs. Adapted from the source document.