ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses some of the key policies and the measures that have been implemented in European countries to sustain well-being in present and past times, and it shows the gendered implications of the changes that occurred. Central topics are the division between paid and unpaid labour, the subsequent time-autonomy, and active intervention in institutions like the family or the market, or changes in citizens' rights, including rights of the two sexes. Anette Borchorst presents a critical analysis of the Scandinavian welfare states and their experiences in generating gender equality. Income inequality is relatively low, and the commitment to gender equality is high. Women participate in paid work almost as often as men, and both men and women occupy high offices in political life. The dominant measure implemented by the welfare state is the dual-breadwinner model, supported by the availability of childcare facilities for preschool children and long, paid parental leaves.
