Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book grapples with the question of how socially marginalised groups experience social exclusion in democratic welfare states. It shows how the welfare state and society at large treat citizens at risk of social exclusion. The book provides new insights into the conceptual interconnections between citizenship, social exclusion and the democratic welfare state. It builds on the scholarly literature on citizenship, and builds on their documentation of increased tensions around social citizenship. The book describes the temporary adaptations made to the Norwegian unemployment benefit regulations during the COVID-19 pandemic and explores the ramifications for citizenship and social inclusion among a disadvantaged group, namely those who are unemployed and without access to unemployment benefits.