ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses and analyzes developments in Dutch labour-market and social policies. It shows the main characteristics of these developments is a paradigmatic shift in those policies from protection to participation. The chapter explores the significance of unpaid activities for participation-oriented social policies. The developments will increase the number of unemployed and decrease the possibilities of non-participation in the labour market and of dependence on social security. In order to increase young people’s opportunities to find a regular job after a period of participation in this job scheme, the private sector has been allowed to create jobs in the context of the scheme as well. In emphasizing the inclusive and emancipatory function of labour-market participation, the report points to the significance of work as shown in unemployment research. The chapter provides some conclusions and outlines some prospects for the future of Dutch social policies.
