Lindsay, Colin and McQuaid, Ronald W (2009) New governance and the case of activation policies: comparing experiences in Denmark and the Netherlands. Social Policy and Administration, 43 (5). pp. 445-463. ISSN 0144–5596

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Abstract/Description

This article explores the importance of new forms of governance in active labour market policies
(activation) in two countries: Denmark and the Netherlands. Drawing on research with key
stakeholders in these countries, we analyse how new governance, and particularly processes of
contracting-out and localization, have found expression in recent reforms to activation. We conclude
that localization and contracting-out may have a future role to play in the development of more
locally responsive and individually focused services. But both countries have encountered problems
in promoting joined-up services through local jobcentres, while contracting-out has not always led
to the tailored, individually focused services envisaged by policy-makers. In both countries, there are
also concerns that the restriction of the Public Employment Service to a ‘gatekeeping and signposting’
role will lead to inconsistencies in the quality of services, exposing the most disadvantaged to greater
social risk.

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