Research Bea Cantillon

Abstract

Research into the poverty-reducing effect of the social economy in Flanders by means of a quantitative and qualitative method, gauging the consequences of social employment for the incomes and quality of life of those concerned.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

COVIVAT assesses the consequences of the COVID-19 social distancing measures on the incomes of Belgian individuals and households. The aim is to generate insights that can support policy makers in limiting the social consequences of the COVID-19 crisis, and that may feed into post-Corona social policy.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Marchal Sarah
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Decancq Koen
• Co-promotor: Marx Ive
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

We build further on the insights and recommendations of the VISA report, and investigate the feasibility of a "nominal poverty indicator". We develop a proposal on the possible construction of such an indicator, taking account of the quality criteria for valid and robust indicators, data availability and implementation potential.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Marchal Sarah
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Ageing is a key societal challenge. The goal of the ESFRI project SHARE is to build a distributed infrastructure to collect a data set that offers researchers and policy makers a state-of-the-art instrument to study in a detailed and multidisciplinary way the topic of ageing, and the challenges it poses. The SHARE data set is a unique ex-ante harmonised data set of cross-national, comparable microlevel panel data on health, living conditions, socioeconomic status, and social networks of more than 123,000 European individuals aged 50 and over, covering 28 countries. The data set has become a pivotal source for empirical academic research on ageing in Europe in many disciplines, such as economics, health studies, sociology, and demography. Moreover, the SHARE data set allows to address highly policy-relevant questions about ageing, and offers unique information with regard to pressing concerns such as early labour market exit, active ageing, and long-term care.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Decancq Koen
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Goedemé Tim
• Co-promotor: Mortelmans Dimitri

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project will add to the annual reports on the evolution of the social situation and social protection in Belgium, by extending the instruments used, using policy indicators for a more timely assessment, also with regard to the COVID crisis, placing the reports and their findings in the broader literature, and listing key challenges.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Decancq Koen
• Co-promotor: Marchal Sarah
• Co-promotor: Marx Ive
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The COVIVAT consortium is a collaboration between three research groups of the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven and the Universiteit Antwerpen. The consortium aims to map the social consequences of the spread of the coronavirus on the incomes of Belgian families, and to generate scientific insights that can support the socio-economic policy to limit the social consequences of the corona crisis and help shape the post-corona policy.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Marx Ive
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Decancq Koen
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project we generate immediate data to monitor the impact of different exit strategies on incomes and poverty. Although the macroeconomic impact of the lockdown measures on the Belgian economy is unprecedented, there is currently no data available to assess the social consequences of the lockdown or to estimate the impact of COVID-19 policies on incomes and poverty. This severely affects legislators' capacity to put effective measures in place. We use advanced microsimulation modelling and forecasting techniques, in the short-term, (1) to document the impact of the COVID-19 economic shock on incomes and poverty; (2) to assess the effectiveness of policies implemented to reduce the loss of incomes during the initial spread of infections; and (3) to support an evidence-based COVID-19 exit strategy by estimating the poverty impact of various scenarios. Our forecasts will support legislators in designing social and economic support measures that adequately target the most vulnerable individuals and households. In the medium-term, we (1) integrate macro-economic scenario's on economic recovery and sectoral unemployment to produce long-term forecasts of the consequences on household incomes and poverty under a variety of growth and employment scenarios; and (2) we calibrate our models with administrative data sources so that future policy responses to expected rebounds in the number of infections in the months and years to come can be monitored using timely data.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Marx Ive
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This study is a comparative analysis on access to social protection for employees and self-employed in Belgium, in the light of the Council Recommendation of 8 November 2019 regarding access to social protection for employees and the self-employed (2019 / C 387/01). Particular attention is paid to the similarities and differences in formal coverage, effective coverage, adequacy of benefits and the transparency of the relevant social security schemes. Targeted policy recommendations are formulated to remedy differences in treatment found to be problematic in the aforementioned areas.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Louckx Freek
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Government and Law

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

VISA aims to develop a set of valid and robust policy input and outcome indicators to measure the impact of policy on poverty and social exclusion in Flanders. We will make recommendations regarding the data and policy models needed to further maintain and develop the VISA indicators in the future.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Marchal Sarah
• Co-promotor: Marx Ive
• Co-promotor: Storms Berenice M L
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Economists evaluate social and economic policies based on their impact on the individual well-being of the members of society. Such measurement depends mostly on the assumption that individuals behave according to well-behaved (i.e. transitive and complete) preferences. Motivated by the overwhelming empirical evidence from psychology and behavioural economics, according to which individual behavior often seems inconsistent with wellbehaved preferences, we aim at developing the methodological tools for analyzing individual welfare in the presence of such seemingly inconsistencies in the behavior of agents. For doing this we will explore an intermediate approach that is in between the agnostic approach (i.e. robust conclusions without specific explanation for the inconsistencies) and the model approach (i.e. an analysis based on a specific model explaining non well-behaved preferences). For the empirical part, we will extensively use the new and largely unexplored MEqIN data set that was gathered by the PIs of this project. This data set allows to compare several methods for measuring well-being and contains detailed information on all the adults of the selected households. In the applications we will restrict our attention to four main dimensions of well-being: health, material well-being, employment status, and the family situation. In this respect we will also recontact the surveyed households to gather extra data related to our research questions.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Decancq Koen
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Welfare states that are effective in reducing poverty have high levels of social spending. Yet, changes in social spending cannot explain changes in poverty outcomes. Inequalities increased almost everywhere and so did levels of social spending, but in many countries social spending became less effective in keeping poverty at bay. So, then, why did social spending became less pro-poor in some countries but not in others? The central hypothesis of this research project is that changes in poverty outcomes across OECD countries can be explained by changes in the middle-class bias in social spending. It is expected that countries in which a larger share of social spending accrued to the middle class, experienced a decrease in welfare state redistribution. Although the influence of the middle class on redistribution is centre stage in welfare state theory, this dimension is invariably ignored in recent attempts to explain poverty outcomes. Therefore, I will (1) empirically assess changes in the middle-class bias in social spending across countries and over time; (2) estimate to what extent this is related to diverging trends in welfare state redistribution and poverty rates; and (3) test three potential mechanisms through which the influence of the middle class on social spending is exerted, derived from the main theories on welfare state redistribution. The result are expected to further our understanding of the mechanisms that underlie welfare state redistribution.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Fellow: Van Lancker Wim

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Publicly provided or subsidised goods and services account for about half of social expenditures in European welfare states. Obviously, this has an important impact upon the living standard of households. Nevertheless, current methods trying to include the value of services into measures of cash incomes largely fail to take into account household needs associated with these services. This project seeks to contribute to the measurement of poverty in welfare states by developing a new way to examine the impact of public services on poverty. The proposal distinguishes four research phases. First, patterns in the cost and accessibility of public services in European welfare states will be studied. Second, on the basis of a new dataset of cross-country comparable reference budgets the project aims to estimate the effect of services and cost-compensations on the budget that specific family types need at the minimum for adequate social participation. For six European countries new poverty thresholds will be estimated which take account of the needs of households and the cost for accessing essential services. Third, the estimated poverty thresholds will be extrapolated to the population by developing a new approach which combines information from reference budgets and household expenditure data. Finally, on the basis of a representative income survey the profile of the poor will be studied and compared to results based on more traditional poverty indicators.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Goedemé Tim
• Fellow: Penne Tess

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Policy strategies to reduce child poverty are nowadays inspired by social investment and generally focused on parental employment. There is substantial overlap between childhood disability and child poverty, but for families with disabled children such employment strategy might be problematic. The risk of being poor for (families of) disabled children is associated with the fact that a) participation in the labour market is difficult for parents as they need to provide care for their children; b) families with disabled children generally have a lower socioeconomic status; and c) they face more medical and other expenses. The main objective of the research proposal is 1) to investigate the interrelationships between these factors; 2) to identify the impact of the current social policy package in Flanders on labour market participation and poverty; and 3) to examine how the prevailing policy paradigm should be recalibrated to achieve better results in terms of child poverty reduction. The research will clarify unresolved questions regarding the role of the work-care balance in families with disabled children in explaining child poverty. The results will allow us a) to formulate new hypotheses on how families with disabled children from different social backgrounds and with different care needs cope with the challenge of care and work; b) to inform policy makers on how to improve existing policy measures; and c) to add to the literature on child poverty and the work-care nexus.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Van Lancker Wim
• Fellow: Vinck Julie

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Structural changes to the global economy and shifting political-institutional conditions have increasingly challenged the ability of American and European welfare states to balance the threeway trade-off of adequate incomes for all, high levels of employment, and fiscal restraint. While comparative welfare state literature has historically identified three different approaches (Nordic, Continental European, and Liberal/'Work-Conditional') to balancing this three-way tradeoff, or "social trilemma", this research project challenges the continued legitimacy of these typological distinctions. Given the decline of the social floor, increasing turn toward activation, and institutional endorsement of the 'social investment strategy' among the 28 EU member states, as well as the recent state-level divergence of social and labour market policies among the 50 United States, this study hypothesizes that the conceptual distinctions among American and European approaches to the social trilemma have been blurred. This project uses policy indicators to assess the structure and net value of income protections across the EU and American states from the mid-1990s through today, while also disentangling the economic and political-institutional drivers of changes in states' approaches to the social trilemma. The research package challenges typological distinctions advanced in prior welfare state research and provides a new evidence base for U.S. and EU policymakers moving forward.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Van Lancker Wim

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The fight against poverty and social exclusion is a policy objective that is high on the political agenda of the European institutions. This is reflected in policy initiatives such as the Europe 2020 Strategy and supported by provisions in the EU Treaties as well as in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. However, these policy objectives and general legal provisions do not have a direct impact on legal claims for financial or other support by persons faced with poverty or social exclusion. This reveals the ambiguity between the EU policy objective of fighting poverty and social exclusion on the one hand and the very modest or even marginal implementation of it in legally binding instruments of EU law on the other. The main objective of this research is to examine how this ambiguity can be lifted, and how EU legal instruments can be improved or developed in order to make more and better contributions towards the realisation of these policy objectives. More specifically, it will study the role the provisions in the EU Treaties, the general principles of EU law and fundamental rights could play in the fight against poverty. It will further provide a critical analysis of the impact of existing EU legal instruments on poverty and social exclusion and come up with proposals to make them more coordinated with the policy objectives. Finally, it will examine what kind of new EU legal instruments could be developed in the fight against poverty and social exclusion.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Verschueren Herwig
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Government and Law

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The IPSWICH project seeks to understand how institutional and policy factors, in relation to underlying labour market and household dynamics, generate in-work poverty in Belgium. It takes into account the relation between in-work and jobless poverty, and examines which policy reforms can contribute to reduce present poverty and prevent further increases. Key factors in the analyses are wages, working hours and contracts, household work intensity, social protection, productivity, discrimination, and wage bargaining power.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Publicly provided or subsidised goods and services account for about half of social expenditures in European welfare states. Obviously, this has an important impact upon the living standard of households. Nevertheless, current methods trying to include the value of services into measures of cash incomes largely fail to take into account household needs associated with these services. This project seeks to contribute to the measurement of poverty in welfare states by developing a new way to examine the impact of public services on poverty. The proposal distinguishes four research phases. First, patterns in the cost and accessibility of public services in European welfare states will be studied. Second, on the basis of a new dataset of cross-country comparable reference budgets the project aims to estimate the effect of services and cost-compensations on the budget that specific family types need at the minimum for adequate social participation. For six European countries new poverty thresholds will be estimated which take account of the needs of households and the cost for accessing essential services. Third, the estimated poverty thresholds will be extrapolated to the population by developing a new approach which combines information from reference budgets and household expenditure data. Finally, on the basis of a representative income survey the profile of the poor will be studied and compared to results based on more traditional poverty indicators.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Goedemé Tim
• Fellow: Penne Tess

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Policy strategies to reduce child poverty are nowadays inspired by social investment and generally focused on parental employment. There is substantial overlap between childhood disability and child poverty, but for families with disabled children such employment strategy might be problematic. The risk of being poor for (families of) disabled children is associated with the fact that a) participation in the labour market is difficult for parents as they need to provide care for their children; b) families with disabled children generally have a lower socioeconomic status; and c) they face more medical and other expenses. The main objective of the research proposal is 1) to investigate the interrelationships between these factors; 2) to identify the impact of the current social policy package in Flanders on labour market participation and poverty; and 3) to examine how the prevailing policy paradigm should be recalibrated to achieve better results in terms of child poverty reduction. The research will clarify unresolved questions regarding the role of the work-care balance in families with disabled children in explaining child poverty. The results will allow us a) to formulate new hypotheses on how families with disabled children from different social backgrounds and with different care needs cope with the challenge of care and work; b) to inform policy makers on how to improve existing policy measures; and c) to add to the literature on child poverty and the work-care nexus.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Van Lancker Wim
• Fellow: Vinck Julie

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research contract awarded by the University of Antwerp. The supervisor provides the Antwerp University research mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions stipulated by the university.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Both at the Belgian and European level, the transition to a low-carbon society is considered an important policy concern. In this project, we start from the framework of sustainable development for contributing to the debate about how the transition to a low-carbon society can be achieved, while reconciling environmental and social goals. As has been documented for other countries, standard policy instruments often create trade-offs between the different goals of sustainable development. Addressing these trade-offs – as well as their translation into inequalities between socio-economic groups – requires a thorough understanding of the link between incomes, consumption and greenhouse gas emissions at the household level. Therefore, in this project we explore the interdependencies and inequalities operating at the micro-level and investigate how policy can reconcile social and environmental goals in the transition towards a low-carbon society.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Verbist Gerlinde
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Goedemé Tim

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The question of how social policy should be designed in order to have the biggest impact on poverty, is often answered with the truism that 'policies designed for the poor, are poor policies'. Indeed, it was generally found that universally designed social policies are better able to reduce poverty than policies targeted to the poor; a phenomenon termed the 'paradox of redistribution'. Behind this paradox lies the observation that universal welfare states tend to be bigger welfare states; they spend more on social policy. In contrast, recent empirical studies find that targeting tends to be associated with higher instead of lower levels of poverty reduction, in particular when accompanied by high levels of social spending. The current state of the literature does not allow to explain the changed relationship between targeting and poverty reduction. Therefore, the main aim of this research proposal is to unravel the link between poverty reduction and targeting across and within developed economies. I will empirically address two hypotheses that might shed light on the mechanisms of how social policy impacts on poverty, and seek to understand the role played by the design of social policy. I will address several shortcomings of previous research and test the generalizability of the results using quantitative as well as a qualitative research methods.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Fellow: Van Lancker Wim

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand VLK. UA provides VLK research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Promotor: Goedemé Tim
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research project has a substantive and a methodological goal. With regard to the substantive goal, the investigation of the implementation of activation practices has remained largely one-sided. We aim to explore interactions between three levels of characteristics: client, social worker and agency. The main research question is, 'How important is the discretionary freedom of social assistance agencies and social workers in deciding on a claimant's duty to work?'

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Cuypers Daniël
• Co-promotor: Goos Peter

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the Federal Public Service. UA provides the Federal Public Service research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project aims to make relevant contributions at broadly two (intersecting) levels. On the one hand the network aims to contribute to a better informed public debate and policy making process on current policy issues, including the fight against poverty and social inclusion, efficient and equitable taxation, sustainable pensions and health care, labour market access and employability. On the other hand the network aims to make significant scientific contributions at an international level on the joint distribution of income and wealth, especially among the poor and the elderly, the integration of assets and wealth in the measurement of poverty and social exclusion, the incorporation of as sets and wealth in the design of social policy and the optimal taxation of wealth.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Marx Ive
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Decancq Koen
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The objective of this project is precisely to set up a data set of a representative sample of Belgian households. The data set will be constructed in such a way that the three techniques of estimating preferences will be applied and compared, with the objective of finding the way to mix them to reach the best possible estimates. No such data set exists, neither for Belgium no for any other country. Once preferences are estimated, measures of individual well-being will be obtained and they will then be used for the analysis of the relative importance of the multiple dimensions of poverty, the gender component of poverty and inequality and the causes and remedies of socioeconomic inequalities in health.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Decancq Koen

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand NBB . UA provides NBB research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Marx Ive
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other FOD Sociale Zekerheid. UA provides FOD Sociale Zekerheid research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Goedemé Tim

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Referring to the increasingly challenging EU2020-ambition of Inclusive Growth, the objectives of the InGRID project are to integrate and to innovate existing, but distributed European social sciences research infrastructures on 'poverty and living conditions' and 'working conditions and vulnerability' by improving the transnational data access, organising mutual knowledge exchange and improving methods and tools for comparative research.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the Flemish Public Service. UA provides the Flemish Public Service research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Mortelmans Dimitri
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Centre for Population, Family and Health

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research proposal takes as its starting points: (a) the long standstill in poverty reduction, especially for people of working age, (b) the complementarity between employment, economic growth and social inclusion that is focal in the EU 2020 strategy, and, (c) the emergence of socially innovative policies and actions in the margins of the European welfare states. It aims at the evaluation of the Lisbon decade in terms of policies and actions against poverty at European, national and sub-national level and at improving the understanding of the interrelationships between employment, social protection and social inclusion and between institutionalised macro level social policies and innovative local action.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Goedemé Tim

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the Flemish Public Service. UA provides the Flemish Public Service research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the Hercules Foundation. UA provides the Hercules Foundation research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Decancq Koen
• Co-promotor: Mortelmans Dimitri
• Co-promotor: Van den Bosch Karel

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The primary aim of this project is to bring together all the knowledge in order to develop a "handbook" with a concrete set of recommendations for data providers and data users. The development fo a "handbook", the organisation of a workshop and possibly the production of documented and user-friendly computer codes for standard errors estimation will ensure that our recommendations will be practicable and widely disseminated among users.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand KBS. UA provides KBS research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Cuypers Daniël

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The proposed research project aims to assess these adjustments in three welfare states (Belgium/Flanders, Sweden and the Netherlands) in a European comparative perspective, with the work-family conflict as a case in point. Since inequality is on the rise again in Europe, the overarching research question concerns the role of NSR policies in the redistributive capacity of welfare states.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Organisation and coordination of a Network on the European Co-ordination of social security schemes within the European Union (Project Nos. VC/2010/0436 - Lot 1: Expertise in Social Security Coordination and VC/2010/1047 - Lot 2: Information and training)

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of this project is to gain insight in the mechanisms underlying socio-economic differences in health seeking behavior, with a focus on vaccination behavior. Throughout the work, I integrate theories from different social sciences (sociology, economics, (social) psychology, and administrative sciences). I aim to contribute to the scientific knowledge on both vaccination behavior in general (identifying factors explaining this behavior can offer keys to the understanding of differences in the behavior) and on socio-economic differences in this behavior (where possible I want to directly observe these differences and connect them to underlying mechanisms).

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Promotor: Van den Bosch Karel
• Co-promotor: Van Damme Pierre

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Putting the social investment state to the test. Assessing the impact of Dutch and Belgian policy adjustments on poverty and social inequality. Facing permanent austerity, several European welfare states 'reinvented' themselves as 'social investment states' (Giddens, 1998): shifting in focus from providing 'passive' income protection towards increasing labour market participation and investing in people's skills. This proposal focuses on the relationship between the social investment state and poverty/social inequality. Although several policy documents assume a natural symbiosis between labour market participation and poverty reduction, a few studies suggest that this relationship is far more ambiguous. To answer this question, the effects of Dutch and Belgian social policies are investigated. The Netherlands and Belgium are 'most similar cases': both countries are very similar (small open transit economies), except for their broad policy reorientations. In the Netherlands there was an increased focus on active labour market policies, while Belgian policy adjustments were small and incremental. This project is divided into three distinct phases. First of all, the evolution of poverty and income inequality will be described for a long period of time. Secondly, policy and resource indicators will be used and collected in order to provide an overview of major social policy adjustments. Finally, these indicators will be used to estimate the redistributive effects of social policy, with special focus for so-called 'risk households'.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Van den Bosch Karel

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand Stichting Instituut Gak. UA provides Stichting Instituut Gakresearch results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the Flemish Public Service. UA provides the Flemish Public Service research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Van den Bosch Karel
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Marx Ive

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Strategic objective: A major improvement in the understanding of changing inequalities and their impacts in the various countries of the European Union in comparison to other developed countries, including a longer-term perspective and with due attention paid to the impact on society as a whole

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Marx Ive
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In the FLEMOSI ("FLEmish MOdels of SImulation") five international partners collaborate to build advanced microsimulation models. We start from the European model EUROMOD and extend this with specific Flemish competences. These models are used to analyse the effects of policy changes before they are put into practice.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Verbist Gerlinde
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the Federal Public Service. UA provides the Federal Public Service research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Marx Ive
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The research project aims to explore how work incapacity fits into early retirement schemes in Flanders, and to compare the Flemish situation with that in other welfare state regimes. It intends to set out in search of substitution effects between different early exit mechanisms and to find explanations for early retirement patterns in Flanders. Factors such as health, demographic evolutions and employer characteristics shall be taken into consideration.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The principle of solidarity is becoming increasingly significant in European law. On the one hand this stems from the existing European Treaties and the reinforcement of the principle of solidarity in the Treaty of Lisbon and in the EU Charter of fundamental rights. It also follows from the most recent developments in the case law of the European Court of Justice with regard to the implementation of parts of community law such as European citizenship, internal market and competition. The prime objective of this research is to analyse how European law defines the principle of solidarity. The results will then be compared to the definition of this concept in the European Open Method of Coordination as well as in Member States' social law and policy. This should lead to conclusions on the issue as to whether there is a coherent view on the principle of solidarity within this European context.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Verschueren Herwig
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project contributes to the activities of the Indicator's Sub-Group (ISG) of the European Commission's DG Employment and Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities. The aim is to develop a vade-mecum reflecting the work on indicators in the context of the ISG, both with regard to methodology as the political dimension. The final report will consist of first, a number of horizontal chapters concerning the development and use of social indicators within the context of the European Union's Open Method for Coordination on Social Protection and Social Inclusion; second, fact sheets for every indicator already agreed or under discussion and third; a web application comprising these fact sheets.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Van den Bosch Karel

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project, the architecture and social adequacy of the welfare regimes in the Eastern EU member states is compared. In order to do so, the project focuses on the evolution of the elderly's income situation. Using various quantitative techniques the effect of cross-temporary and cross-sectional differences in social policy on the intergenerational and intra-generational distribution of income is estimated. More specifically the importance of differences in income packages (public, private, occupational pensions, compensations in health-care and housing, income from work) for the adequacy of incomes are scrutinized. In doing so, the project contributes to a better understanding of the impact of social policy on social outcomes and to the literature on the evolution of welfare regimes.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Fellow: Goedemé Tim

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research contract awarded by the University of Antwerp. The supervisor provides the Antwerp University research mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions stipulated by the university.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Breda Jef

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research consists of two central parts. In the first part, I look for possible characteristics of a European social model. Does there exist a set of common features, and if so, how do they relate with the differences? In order to answer that question, a comparison is made between the European social market economies with social market economies elsewhere, with respect to their structure, functioning, and outcomes (in terms of effectiveness). This analysis will be based on socio-economic data at both the micro- and macro-level (LIS, ECHP (EU-SILC), ESSPROS and OECD data), complemented with a meta-study of the vast relevant literature. The empirical data will be analysed from a multidisciplinary focus in line with the social policy analysis tradition: the coherence and diversity of social arrangements (input) will be related with policymaking (throughput) and with the outcomes of social policies in terms of social effectiveness (output). The research question in the second part of this study is whether the European social model needs to be strengthened, and if so, how that should be established. This analysis will first look at the existing central social instruments, such as the Structural Funds. What are the purpose, size and effectiveness of the current flow of funds? Secondly, the minimum income schemes in the Member States are scrutinized, starting, in particular, from the question what options Europe has at its disposal, both in principle as in political and economic reality, to improve these national minimum income schemes. Finally, using modelling techniques, the impact of different future scenarios are compared. The multidisciplinary framework from the first part will also guide the analysis in the second part.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The strategic goal of this project is to develop a coherent framework for the development of social cohesion indicators in Flanders. While in the past decade, enormous amounts of statistical material have been assembled in Flanders, never before these various data sets (crime, fear of crime, use of social security, income, social participation, local government expenditures) have been brought together in one coherent data collection, that can be used by a wide array of social actors. With this project, we will assemble such a data set, by bringing together some of the best research teams in Flanders, each of them with a long track record in their field (resp., criminology, social security, participation and local government expenditure). In a second phase of this project, additional data will be collected by conducting a representative survey of the Flemish population, with an oversampling of theoretically relevant communities (the selection of these communities will be based on the results of the first data combination phase).

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main specific objective of the initiative is to provide scientific research Input and support for the equal opportunities policy development and implementation of the Flemish government by developing multidisciplinary expertise and research potential in the area of equal opportunities policy in Flanders in a more integrated way. Another specific objective is to create a documentation and information centre and a contact point which serves a wide circle of direct and indirect beneficiaries in the field of equal opportunities policy.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Meier Petra
• Promotor: Van Steenberge Josse
• Co-promotor: Breda Jef
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Cuypers Daniël
• Co-promotor: Jacobs Therese
• Co-promotor: Meier Petra
• Co-promotor: Mortelmans Dimitri
• Co-promotor: Nonneman Walter

Research team(s)

• Citizenship, Equality & Diversity (CED)
• Politics & Public Governance

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

One of the most remarkable trends in recent decades has been the sharp increase in female labour supply and the related shift from a breadwinner towards a dual-earner society (Cantillon, 1991). On the other hand, the proliferation of dual earnership has not been universal: large numbers of low-skilled women remain inactivity or end up in unemployment. This conclusion has important socio-economic implications: not only do single-earner families face a high poverty risk, but this effect is further reinforced by the fact that low-skilled women tend to live together with low-skilled partners whose earnings potential is also low. Moreover, the employment of low-skilled women is a key issue in the European Employment Strategy, which stresses the importance of a rise in employment levels in order to sustain social security in a greying society. The proposed research will investigate why the so-called Belgian combination model has not worked for low-skilled women. Various hypotheses shall be tested. On the one hand, it seems reasonable to assume that financial constraints pose a greater problem for low-skilled women with low earnings potential. On the other, it is possible that poorly educated women have developed different preferences vis-à-vis the combination of work and care. A third hypothesis is that low-skilled females face a heavier care burden, not only numerically, but also through the accumulation of problems at household level: low income, household instability (e.g. lone mothers tend to be low skilled), ethnic minority background, presence of 'vulnerable' children with a variety of problems such as learning difficulties, behavioural and emotional problems, mental and physical disabilities.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project, the architecture and social adequacy of the welfare regimes in the Eastern EU member states is compared. In order to do so, the project focuses on the evolution of the elderly's income situation. Using various quantitative techniques the effect of cross-temporary and cross-sectional differences in social policy on the intergenerational and intra-generational distribution of income is estimated. More specifically the importance of differences in income packages (public, private, occupational pensions, compensations in health-care and housing, income from work) for the adequacy of incomes are scrutinized. In doing so, the project contributes to a better understanding of the impact of social policy on social outcomes and to the literature on the evolution of welfare regimes.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Fellow: Goedemé Tim

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Minimum benefits in the Belgian Social Security System are automatically adapted to price evolution following the so called "health-index". In the beginning of 2004, the Belgian government decided to adapt minimum benefits not only to price evolution but also to welfare evolution from 2007 on. This research project investigated to what extent the subsistence level in our neighboring countries follow welfare evolution, and which mechanism are used to achieve this. Which lessons can be drawn from policies in other countries in order to achieve welfare correction for minimum benefits? Which policies are possible, and what are their pros and contras. The research is divided in three parts. We start with an update of the evolution of the Belgian minimal protection level. We go in-depth to which extent Belgian policies achieve minimal benefit levels that follow the evolution of purchasing power and welfare. Then we compare this evolution with the evolution in our neighboring countries. Finally, we focus on recent policies of these countries regarding social benefits and especially the policies to install benefit level adaptations for the general welfare.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Gelieve aan te vullen a.u.b.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Breda Jef

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Gelieve aan te vullen a.u.b.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Fellow: Goedemé Tim

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Equalsoc is a network of excellence funded by the European Commission under the 6th Framework Programme. The network consists of 13 European research centres which the Commission deems to have attained exceptional level of academic expertise in the field of social inequality and cohesion. The network intends to encourage comparative research in such areas as employment and the labour market, income distribution and mobility, education and social mobility, the family and social networks, cultural differentiation and social capital.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Marx Ive
• Co-promotor: Van den Bosch Karel
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The most important societal issues with which Flanders and Europe will be confronted in coming decades is the twofold ageing of the population. The three principal policy issues that arise in this context are: i) the manner in which the burden of population ageing should/can be distributed between and within generations; ii) the development of high-quality and affordable care support for all; iii) and the enhancement of participation by the elderly in economic, social, political and cultural life in order that the capital of experience, knowledge and skills that the elderly represent could be utilised maximally. As far as the Flemish policy level is concerned, all aspects of these problematic areas are relevant: policy on formal and informal care for the elderly, including the Flemish care insurance scheme, employment policy, tax policy, housing policy, sociocultural and educational policy and, as a context for all policy domains, the structure of income and expenditure distribution and particularly the position occupied by the weaker groups (who may be targets of specific provisions). Some important research has already been conducted into the socio-economic aspects of population ageing in Flanders, but often this research is insufficiently prospective and informative for policy purposes. Moreover, usually a European angle is lacking, even though Flemish policy can obviously draw lessons from developments in other European countries. We therefore propose to construct an interdisciplinary knowledge platform with a view to: -bringing together available expertise in Flanders in the field of policy-oriented research into the issue of population ageing; -collecting high-quality data for Flanders that allow comparison with other regions and countries in Europe; -developing research instruments and methods to analyse these data in dynamic perspective and to test policy alternatives for their economic and social efficiency.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Van den Bosch Karel

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Van den Bosch Karel
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research project deals with the question of what is the most optimal level at which to organise social redistribution through social security and taxation, in Belgium, in other federal States and in Europe. This issue will be approached empirically, by studying the functioning, the determinants and the outcomes (in terms of social adequacy) of social redistribution between territorial entities. From a distributional perspective, we shall try to determine the optimum level at which to organise income redistribution and explore possibilities for allowing separate redistributive entities to work together.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Marx Ive
• Co-promotor: Van den Bosch Karel
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this pilot-action-research project 50 families on low income will be followed during half a year, with the aim of obtaining extensive and thorough data on their resources and coping strategies. In this way, quantitatively oriented research on large samples will be linked to small-scale qualitative studies of low-income families. In addition, the true extent of non-take-up of social benefits will be assessed.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Van den Bosch Karel

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The modern labour market demands a great amount of flexibility. A continuous development of knowledge and competences is required. The stimulation of the participation of adults in higher education is an important policy field. This VIONA-research aims to extend the knowledge on adults in higher education by an explorative study focused on Flanders. Based on administrative records on higher education, a detailed profile of adult students is constructed. In an explorative survey, we subsequently try to further reveal the profile, motivations, barriers and experiences of adults in higher education and the consequences on their professional careers. Additionally, a selection of institutes are questioned about the efforts made, related to lifelong learning, the difficulties they experience by doing so and the means spent. Finally, the existing instruments to facilitate a return to higher education are scrutinized.

Researcher(s)

• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project, we intend to study empirically how-given the high dependency rate (and thus cost) in social security, low labour market anticipation (esp. among the low skilled) and relatively high (net) minimum wages - the public and private markets for (child)care services can be expanded within existing budgetary restrictions and with maintenance (or improvement) of minimum incomes from work and benefits.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) is an ambitious project which collects data about Europeans aged 50 and older in order to shed light on one of the most dramatic challenges in the years to come - population ageing. The project is cross-national and interdisciplinary, which introduces considerable complexity and necessitates scientific and managerial innovations. SHARE is designed to foster better understanding of the complex interactions among economic, health, psychological and social factors that determine the quality of life of the elderly. The present project involves collecting SHARE data for Flanders, a region of Belgium.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Breda Jef
• Co-promotor: Mortelmans Dimitri

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project focusses on European social policy, specifically minimum income guarantee. The background of the research is the social philosophical debate about interstate solidarity. After creating this theoretical framework, the minimum protection schemes of the EU Member States are analysed and evaluated from a social efficiency perspective. An additional question is whether the major differences in poverty between the Member States can be explained by the different social policy systems. A final part deals with the possibility, necessity and desirability of a stronger EU steering in social policy to back up the presen Open Method of Co-ordination.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main motivation for this project is that less is known about the links between welfare state arrangements and outcomes than about each separately. Outcomes are always determined by the whole policy package of which a particular arrangement is a part. Depending on the context in terms of other arrangements and the socio-economics situation, similar arrangements may well lead to very different outcomes.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Van den Bosch Karel

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Van den Bosch Karel
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Goossens Luc
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Centre on Inequality, Poverty, Social Exclusion and the City
• Centre for Research on Environmental and Social Change

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research project concerns the issue of the borders of national welfare states in the light of immigration, and more specifically female immigration. The legal issue pertains to the way the welfare state limits of guarantees the attribution of social rights to different types of non-EU immigrants. The question refers to the challenge that international migration poses to the organization as well as the conceptual borders of national welfare states. More specifically I aim to examine how the factual situation of female immigrants is determined by gender-neutral immigration legislation and social legislation, and to what degree law creates or exacerbates dependency and poverty.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Van Steenberge Josse
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Fellow: Mussche Ninke

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Van den Bosch Karel
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project, we intend to study empirically how-given the high dependency rate (and thus cost) in social security, low labour market anticipation (esp. among the low skilled) and relatively high (net) minimum wages - the public and private markets for (child)care services can be expanded within existing budgetary restrictions and with maintenance (or improvement) of minimum incomes from work and benefits.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Breda Jef
• Co-promotor: Meulemans Herman
• Co-promotor: Van Steenberge Josse

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research project sets out to explore the problematic nature of income inequality in contemporary post-industrial society. The key question is how today absolute and relative income position are related to social segmentation. More specifically it is our goal to find out in how far income and income inequality determine other aspects of social inequality. The impact of income and income distribution on various social areas seem less straightforward than it used to be. On the one hand there are indication that the former determining character of incomes has diminished while on the other hand the relative income position is still a crucial factor in explaining social inequalities. The research project will consist of two part. First, the international literature on the link between income inequality and other social inequalities will be summarised and analysed. Second, we plan to do empirical research for Belgium.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Van den Bosch Karel

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Verbist Gerlinde

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project we investigate the relationship between transport use and socio-economic inequality. The existing databases (a.o. PSBH, Census) will be examined in order to draw up a socio-economic profile of transport users. By means of the microsimulation model MISIM we intend to measure the consequences of policy measures on income distribution and poverty. Attention will be focused on the effect of policy alternatives to encourage the use of public transport and to discourage the use of cars.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Van den Bosch Karel
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The focus of research at the Centre for Social Policy (CSP) is on poverty, income distribution and the welfare state. According to the interests of the Phd. Students, the following research areas can be the subject of the doctoral training: 1. Study of poverty and social security outcomes in an international context, to gain better insights into the mechanisms determining the relative effectiveness of social security, unemployment schemes, family policy and social assistance programs. 2. Study of the dynamics of poverty and subsistence insecurity, by the use of large scale socio-economic panel surveys. 3. Development, validation and use of alternative measures of poverty. 4. Construction, evaluation and validation of comparable quantitative social indicators; developing benchmarks for social quality based on a comparative analysis. 5. Evaluation of social security and tax reform proposals by means of tax-benefit models.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main specific objective of the initiative is to provide scientific research input and support for the equal opportunities policy development and implementation of the Flemish government by developing multidisciplinary expertise and research potential in the area of equal opportunities policy in Flanders in a more integrated way. Another specific objective is to create a documentation and information centre and a contact point which serves a wide circle of direct and indirect beneficiaries in the field of equal opportunities policy.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Vranken Jan
• Co-promotor: Breda Jef
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Cuypers Daniël
• Co-promotor: Tanghe Fernand

Research team(s)

• Centre on Inequality, Poverty, Social Exclusion and the City
• Centre for Research on Environmental and Social Change

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This thematic network has both scientific and policy-related objectives. It is co-ordinated by the EFSQ (European Foundation on Social Quality, Amsterdam). The scientific objective is to build on the work of the represented teams and other related projects in the EU in order to construct an index of social quality that can be applied on a regular basis in all member states and across the EU as a whole. The network will be a scientific team made up of representatives from nearly all member states. Via a process of iteration it will develop together an agreed set of indicators of social quality.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of this project is to clarify the relationship between welfare state effort (in particular, size and structure of the system of social security and social assistance income transfers) and the number and composition of the poor. The project will involve a thorough literature review, and the design of an explorative model for this relationship, using data for two countries, viz. Belgium and the UK.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project will provide further evidence on the sociale characteristics of the Belgian health care system and contribute to the existing international evidence on three different aspects. 1) Provide factual information about the link between an individual's income and its liability for user charges over time. To which degree has the increase in copayments led to an increased share of medical care in household income over time and what is the impact on poverty? 2) Analyse the current impact of health care payments on households. What individuals are most vulnerable with respect to medical payments? What are the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients having payment problems? 3) Analysis of the (actual) degree of vertical and horizontal equity of the different payment sources for health care in Belgium and international comparison.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: De Graeve Diana
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Economics

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The major objective of the network activities is to stimulate co-operative research on how employment growth for the low skilled can be furthered while avoiding the pitfalls of in-work poverty.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

• Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of this CSP research project is to develop longitudinal series of indicators of policy effort, which can reveal trends as regards spending in social security, and which allow a continuous evaluation (abstracting from social reality) of the adequacy of benefits in terms of poverty alleviation. A procedure will be developed to update the series annually, both on the macro and the micro-level.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of this research project is to build a measuring instrument in which various aspects of poverty will be measueds and on the basis of which a poverty-index will be calculated. In this part of the research project only income-related aspects of poverty will be discussed.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

On a national as well as on an international level different methods of income measurement are applied in socio-economic surveys. However, little research has been done concerning the reliability of the reported income and concering the effect of the reference period (year, month) and the concrete operationalisation on the quality of reported income and on the levels of income distribution and financial poverty. Yet, Belgian data seem to indicate that a substantial effect may exist. Recently, data became available for Belgium (CSP-Panel and Panel Study on Belgian Households 1993 and 1994) which allow for an inquiry into these effects. These data are unique as they contain results of different methods of income measurement on the same respondents, allowing a direct measurement of the effects. The project will contain an inventory of existing research. Furthermore, the theoretical-conceptual level of income measurement will be elaborated. The main focus of the research will be on empirical evaluation of different methods of income measurement. It is the aim of the research tot contribute to the improvement of the quality and (internationa) comparability of income surveys.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Van den Bosch Karel

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project researches the question on how the concept of a participation income could be filled in within the Belgian institutional context.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

To make an inventory of experts and researchers, who will make an analysis about 'views on work and non-work'. There will also be preparatory analytical activities concerning subjects which are concerned with the subject 'work and non-work'.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research project includes two main elements://..First, detailed information on all branches of social protection in Belgium focusing on the period since the beginning of 1998.//..Second, a short critical analysis, pointing out problems and challenges, as well as the ongoing policy debate and proposed legislation in Belgium (in particular in the field of unemployme,nt, social assistance, retirement schemes, health benefits and services, social protection schemes aiming to ease combination of work and family)

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project analyses data of the ECHP for ten counties to characterize the income protection offered to unemployed persones and persons on early retirement. Three dimensions of protection are studied: benefit coverage, average amount of the benefit and replacement rates. Important differences appear between countries and according to individual characteristics of the people involved, including the type of household.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

By order of Eurostat a socio-economic panel survy is carried out in Belgium, as in other EU-countries, since 1994. The survey is carried out by the centre for Sdocial Policy (UFSIA) and research teams of UIA and Ulg. Main topics in the survey are: income and employment of private households.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The core of the research project is a survey of about 1500 occupants of a house build by one of the recognized social housing companies in Flanders. Antwerp and Gent will be oversampled by about 300 respondents. In the survey we combine the themes 'profile of the tenant in the social sector' and 'subjective experience of the achievements in social housing', which enhances the scientific possibilities, and is also more cost-efective. The questionnaire will aim at maximum comparbility wth current and earlier studies in the same domain, as well as withsample surveys for the total population.//..The analysis will consist of three parts: a snapshot of the situation in 1998, a longitudinal analysis at the macro-level and a longitudinal analysis at the micro-level.

Researcher(s)

• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Social benefits and (para)fiscal charges have obviously an important influence on family members' labour market participation decisions. In particular the interplay between various benefits (unemployment, family allowances,...) is a significant factor in the creation of dependency traps. This raises the question whether actual Flemish and Federal policy prevents the transition from benefit dependency towards employment and/or jobtraining. The aim of this research project is to investigate the incidence and importance of financial disincentives, i.e. the financial consequences for families of the move from benefit dependency into employment or training programmes.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The influence of recent social-economic research on law and jurisprudence. Receptionof growing concern for the poor in law through legal definitions and open legal concepts.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cuypers Daniël
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Tanghe Fernand
• Co-promotor: Velaers Jan
• Co-promotor: Vranken Jan

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Current social security cannot solve the problem of social exclusion. The research focusses on 3 topics : the juridical definition of the labor concept; the juridical definition of social exclusion; the possible social structures representing the excluded.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Van Steenberge Josse
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Walgrave Stefaan

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

From an intellectual perspective , indications for the developments summed up above are still not connected. THE IUAP aims at the production of a coherent set of answers to the following questions: To what extent is there an interrelationship between the socioeconomic polarisation on the educational dimension; the limits of the present social protection arrangements; the emergence of the new ideological and political cleavages; the policies that are currently being pursed and the developments of policy utopias? Are the current social problems really substantially different from the problems in the past to speak of a new social question? Why are the instruments of the welfare state powerless with regard to the (new) social dividing lines? How should the re-orientation of the care schemes be envisages? What part can the old and new , social and political movements play in the re-orientation of the welfare state?

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Breda Jef
• Co-promotor: Van Steenberge Josse
• Co-promotor: Walgrave Stefaan

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The assignment includes: a. an evaluation of the decision to make subsistence allowance available to youngsters; b. providing insight into the reasons of the increase in the number of youngsters receiving subsistence allowance; c. formulation of possible policy alterantives with regard to youngsters'right to social security and minimum income.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The purpose is to compile a file on the new social question and possible ways to resolve it. This will be achieved within the framework of the 'Toekomstzorg' or future care programme and, more in particular, on behalf of the 'Millennium Conferences 1996'. The 'new social question' refers to the dual problem of the structural exclusion of unskilled people from the job market and poverty which is an immediate consequence of this.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Marx Ive

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The CSB (Centre for Social Policy) will, within the framework of the European Community Household Panel, devise a statistical weighting procedure to guarantee the representativeness of data. The weight factors are developed in accordance with the requirements of Eurostat.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Up until recently the adequacy and the redistributive impact of social security was assessed on the benefit side of the system only. Computer programs do now provide information on the social benefits likely to have been paid by households. Hence, the first part of the research project is aimed at exploiting the potential for analysis which this data offers. In particular, it will make an attempt at calculating the net-redistributive impact of social security as well as the net-adequacy of the system. A second part of the project assesses the policy implications of the empirical results. Particular attention will be paid to the question of whether and to what extent the equivalence principle has been eroded.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project will be an empirical contribution on the question of the distribution of the increasing pension expenditures, under different social policy scenarios and given the important socio-demographic changes. We investigate the adequacy of the current pension scheme and of alternative pension policies, taking into account the actual changes in socio-demographic or -economic determinants of the income and welfare distribution (in particular the increasing labour force participation of women).

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The point of departure in this study is the constatation that 'the principle of integration' gains ground in social policy and in the fight against poverty. One can notice a shift from a 'passive' to a more 'activated' social assistance. The main question in this research is: 'What is the efficiency of a social assistance between minimum income guarantee and integration?'.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Tan Barbara

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

A model will be developed which allows for simulating unemployment benefit ratio's for different types of households (standard simulation technique). The model will incorporate current unemployment benefits, taxes, child allowances, subsidies for child care and housing benefits. As simulations are made for different household types, including two-earner families, the impact of other incomes in the household is considered. This study is part of an international project and will as such provide comparable data for 8 European Countries.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Subject of our investigation is the discrepancy between the objective fact of a non growing financial insecurity and the common feeling of increasing subjective insecurity. Young persons will be asked wether they feel able to cope with the challenge of the growing requirements of the social systems. Situational factors - cultural as well as structural - might provide an explanation for the growing social deprivation.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Dierickx Guido
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project assesses the social and economic consequences of various initiatives - public and private - aimed at redistributing work. We approach this subject from 3 angles: the general distribution of the work load (in view of socio-demographic and economic changes), the division of labour within the family and the life-cycle distribution of work.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project is a co-operative effort that involves the collection and analysis of social and economic data by means of a large-scale panel survey. The Centre for Social Policy conducts the socio-economic module. In the analysis the focus is on the distribution of income and the evolution of living standards, the incidence and social structure of poverty and the adequacy of social policy, social security policy in particular.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The objective of the project is to determine transfers in the social security system which cannot be explained in terms of interpersonal solidarity and to develop a methodology for this cause. Within this project the CSP carries out research concerning family allowances, fiscal spending for family support and financial currents on the basis of the CSP-data-files.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Analysis of the impact of the national minimum income schemes. Evaluation on the basis of existing data.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The objective of the project is to determine the effect of the different social security systems in the EC-countiries on the economic behaviour of families. Special attention is given to the effect of the social security system on female labour participation.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Study of family political measures and their horizontal and vertical effects of reditribution in social security and tax law. Simultaneously alternative political options in these areas will be investigated.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Description of : - minimum income national schemes; - current political situation concerning this issue; - evaluation and analysis based on existing data. Analysis of the impact of the different national schemes.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

A comparative study of child support in the EC. The research is based on contributions from national informants concerning their tax and benefit system .

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The research team wants to gain more in-depth knowledge about the influence of social, economic and policy changes on: - income and social insecurity - well-being of families and their members - social webs and social environmental surrounding. The attention will be focused on the consequences of the (re)structuring of the course of life due to the increasing variety of family practices.

Researcher(s)

• Co-promotor: Breda Jef
• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea
• Co-promotor: Meulemans Herman
• Co-promotor: Van Hove Erik

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

A standardised panel survey will make fully comparable datasets available for all countries of the E.C. The Centre for Social Policy will focus on poverty, minimum protection and equal treatment of men and women.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project tends to improve and to refine the information concerning: - the characteristics of people living in social insecurity and their circumstances of life - the efficiency of social security and - the relations with assistance agencies. The methods used in, and the results from income surveys on large scale will be put through a critical evaluation.

Researcher(s)

• Co-promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The study implies an analysis of information that is available in the data-files of the Centre for Social Policy. The data to be analysed concerns following topics: - family relations in which children live//.. - social environment in which children live//.. - the financial position of households in which children live.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project intends to give a new impuls to the study of the means put into social security. Attention will be given to the quantitative as well as to the qualitative aspects of social security policy.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The effects of changing family structures (and socio-demografic changes in general) on income distribution, poverty rates and efficacity of Social Security.

Researcher(s)

• Promotor: Cantillon Bea

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project