The model of social policy is a set of tools that are used by the state to resolve social issues. Such a model, as a rule, is based on a certain doctrine that differs in the degree of influence and influence of the state on the social sphere. There are several classifications of models of social policy, and each of them reflects one of the aspects of social direction.
Social Democratic, Conservative, Liberal, and Catholic Models
On the issue of the number of models of social policy, political scientists have not yet come to an unequivocal opinion. There are several classifications, each of which is considered equally true. However, the following classification can be considered the most used. According to her, there are 4 models of social policy: social democratic, conservative, liberal and Catholic.
The key criterion for evaluating these models is considered the probability of achieving a positive solution to two problems: employment problems and poverty problems.
In the social democratic model, attention is focused on the social redistribution of income through fiscal policy. And also on the employment of the working part of the population.
In the conservative model, significant emphasis is placed on employment, but social redistribution is not considered important. In this model, the phenomenon of the “working poor” is most pronounced.
The liberal model is characterized by a low level of employment, but a rather high level of social redistribution.
In the Catholic (it is also called Latin) model of both employment and social redistribution, very little attention is paid by the state.
Beveridge and Bismarck models
Another commonly used classification is the Commission of the European Community (EU). In this classification, two main models of social policy are distinguished: Beveridge and Bismarck.
The Bismarck model is characterized by the establishment of a tight connection between the level of social protection and the success of professional activity. In this case, social benefits are realized in the form of insurance premiums. In other words, social protection in this model is not dependent on the state budget.
The Beveridge model is based on the postulate that any person, regardless of their membership in the active population, has the right to security (albeit minimal) in case of illness, old age or any other kind of limitation of their resources.
Financing of such a system occurs through taxes from the state budget. And in this case, the principle of national solidarity and the concept of distributive justice are implemented.
