Social Safety Nets in Central Europe: Preparation for Accession to the European Union?

Abstract:     
A critical unresolved task of the ongoing economic transformation in Central European countries is the reformulation of social safety nets and income transfers to prepare for accession to the European Union. Existing programs inhibit productivity of labor, delay structural adjustment and prolong high unemployment. If Central European states adjust their social safety nets to those prevailing among the EU members, the results will involve employment-fostering programs, as well as future income transfers, unemployment benefits and other elements not currently provided. This paper examines policy solutions aimed at reducing unemployment and at improving the pension and other social security systems.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 20

Accepted Paper Series