Changing modes of governance in activation policies in France and The Netherlands: Common path or countermodel?

Abstract

Purpose – To explore and explain differences in reform of activation policies, comparing the shifts in governance in France and The Netherlands from the 1990s onwards. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on in-depth case studies of the reform process in activation policies, using documentary sources and interviews with several stake-holders. The theoretical scope is the debate on institutional change, path-dependency and convergence. Findings – Although both countries demonstrate converging tendencies in the transformation of their activation policies, there are remarkable differences in the new modes of governance. Moving away from a traditionally hierarchical organisation, France is gradually developing a network model with more emphasis on decentralisation. Alternatively, The Netherlands privatised their public employment services and explore principal – agent realtions in activation. The institutional context of both nation, in particular the concept of path-dependency, seems crucial in the explanation of these differences. However, some new elements are path-breaking in a national context but do not illustrate converging trends. Research limitations/implications – This comparative study is aimed at the fields of employment services, social benefits and social assistance in two countries. For a more complete approach of the changes is activation policies, further research is needed to include other fields of social policy and other nations whithin Europe. Originality/value – The paper develops both empirical and theoretical conclusions on the path-dependent and convergin elements in transforming labour market coordination throughout Europe. © 2007, Emerald Group Publishing Limited