ABSTRACT

The dominant forms of social exclusion within most European countries are based not on political or legal restrictions, limiting access to civil rights, education, or professional occupations, but on the outcome of ostensibly universal criteria of achievement, reflecting personal qualities, efforts, and attributes. This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book argues that despite its cosmopolitan veneer, competitive pressures are intensifying in the "New Europe", and material inequalities are increasing sharply. It discusses a comparative analysis of women's pension entitlements in Denmark, Germany, and Britain demonstrates, work-related inequalities among women are carried over into female poverty in later life. The book examines recent developments in relation to our understandings of race, ethnicity, religion, and gender. It suggests the most immediate outcomes of the peace dividend will be an increase in unemployment.