ABSTRACT

This chapter describes the core concepts of social security and how these have developed through time. It also describes the forms of income protection used to realise social security. The chapter discusses core elements: the extent of the obligation to provide social security, the forms by which this can be done, solidarity, and the responsibility of the insured. It also discusses criticism of the definition and approach of social security, for instance, in view of the so-called new risks. The chapter also discusses the types of contingencies falling within the social security concept. Within the welfare state social security is a core element. It denotes the responsibility of the state for protection of its citizens from want and this is indeed essential, since only if basic needs are fulfilled are citizens able to access other public services; for instance, going to public libraries, museums or schools.