ABSTRACT
This chapter considers some of the challenges of framing policy that targets women's opportunities, especially given the frequent role as caregivers. It dwells on issues in the developed world and there are plenty of opportunities for improvement in poorer countries, and not simply with the domestic policies. The chapter focuses on policies concerning issues such as family leave, taxation, and childcare are not merely women's issues and it is important for anyone who hopes to improve human welfare and establish institutions that treat everyone with equal concern and respect. It describes the noting variations in conceptions of family and the role of work. The chapter discusses why family life in general and work balance in particular is legitimate targets of public policy. It discusses just a few of the many policies regarding family and the workplace. The chapter considers whether there are important reasons in the area to be leery of the power of public policy to improve things.
