Izvorni znanstveni članak
https://doi.org/10.3935/rsp.v8i2.214
Transformation and Social Security in Hungary
Katalin Tausz
; Eötvös Loránd University
Zsuzsa Ferge
; Eötvös Loránd University
Sažetak
The social and political transformation in Hungary contributed to the development of a democratic political system and to the establishment of the rule of law and market economy, but the process was accompanied by a series of economic and social problems. After ten years of transition the economy can be said to be taking an upturn, but the social indicators are improving at a much slower pace. Not only did the transition cause a number of social problems – many reforms were inconsistent and contrary to the proclaimed political goals. This is shown in the paper by an analysis of former Hungarian governments which had different political orientations, but whose political viewpoints and social policies were blurred, without a clear political or ideological profile and without a clear commitment to the welfare of all. As a result, welfare spending has constantly been reduced and is currently below the OECD average. This has been achieved by many measures: by the reduced scope of universalism, by curtailing the elements of solidarity within the existing insurance schemes, by focusing on target groups and by expanding discretionary decision-making powers. The paper provides a detailed analysis of the reforms introduced in the past ten years in all the fields of social policy: employment and unemployment, health care, pension reform, family policy, social welfare. The rise in unemployment was the greatest challenge of the transitional period. It called for new programmes of social protection that were in fact implemented. Yet the funds earmarked for unemployment benefits were gradually reduced. The health care reform was implemented in a peacemeal way, as opposed interests prevented an integrated approach. The most far-reaching changes occurred in the pension system, functioning with four pillars since 1998. The reform of the pension scheme was largely determined by the approach advocated by the World Bank. Although family policy was very well developed in the socialist period, it underwent many changes as well. There were attempts at adapting elements of social welfare to old and new social risks. Nevertheless, social integration and socially balanced development in general continue to remain critical issues of Hungary's future.
Ključne riječi
transformation; social security; social policy; reforms; development; Hungary
Hrčak ID:
30056
URI
Datum izdavanja:
1.2.2001.
Posjeta: 2.023 *