EU social policy: challenges and prospects

Abstract

Introduction. Reform of the social policy is one of the most important issues not only for individual the EU Member States but for the EU as a whole. The economic integration in the absence of adequate social protection means the growth of inequality, insecurity and marginalization among EU citizens. Areas of solving economic and social problems, which worsened in recent years because of military action in Syria and Ukraine and exit of the UK out of the EU (Brexit), should be aimed at preserving the EU single market, reforming the labour market and social policies.

Purpose. The article aims to assess the trends and problems of implementation of government social policy and social protection in the EU and to identify areas of social policy reforming.

Results. The classification of social policy models has been proposed. Analysis of current trends in social protection has been carried out. The spending for social protection in the EU has been estimated. On the basis of research the problems in EU social policy have been outlined. The ways of its reforming have been determined.