EU Social Inclusion Policies in Post-Socialist Countries

Abstract

The fact that post-socialist European Union (EU) countries are struggling with implementation of the EU's social inclusion policy is well known. But why is that so? Are the problems solely connected with how inclusion policies are enforced, or could it just as likely be the way policies are designed that creates challenges? This book explores experiences with inclusion policy implementation in seven different post-socialist EU countries. It focuses particularly on two groups of people in constant danger of social exclusion: people with Roma background and people with disabilities.So far, researchers have studied these issues primarily through policy analysis, and thus not provided knowledge on what actually happens in local contexts where welfare services are produced. This book sheds light on implementation processes at different levels, both at the policy level and in local welfare production. The picture painted here is one of complex and conflicting considerations First published 2020 by Routledge

"Romanian Ngos’ Efforts to Advocate on Behalf of Marginalized Groups and Prevent Social Turbulence"

“…Time and again, research shows that while Romania is a European Union member fully committed to upholding standards regarding this group, there is a huge gap between state policies and the reality. These are caused by: 1. a medicalized approach, 2. cultural lag, and 3. downright opposition to implementing EU laws and directives in this field (Fylling et al, 2020). Seeing disability almost exclusively through medical lenses further justifies patriarchal attitudes towards this group, and also a poor adaptation of Romanian practices to international ones (Baciu and Lazar, 2017).…”