Transnational comparisons, studies and networks on European welfare policy and practice
From the mid-19th century, social policy makers and practitioners have increasingly looked abroad seeking comparative measures and new ideas. In 2012, the Centre for the History of Welfare at Oxford Brookes University and the Voluntary Action History Society are bringing together researchers from all stages of their careers, from Britain and beyond, to explore this trend and its impact.
Oxford Brookes will host two workshops. The objective to is explore the potential for developing a large collaborative, multi-stranded research project whilst also presenting opportunities to disseminate research, evaluate methodologies and exchange ideas. Potential research questions include:
- How and why are international and trans-national networks established, who is involved and how influential are they?
- To what extent is it possible to trace direct connections between trans-national networks or studies and particular policy initiatives?
- What examples are there of social policy initiatives that were consciously modelled on practice observed abroad?
- Where policy and practice develops along radically different lines in different counties, why is this, and what implications does it have?
SPRING WORKSHOP – Wednesday 21 March 2012
This workshop will be divided into two parts. The morning will provide a forum for discussion amongst postgraduate and early-career researchers working on transnational histories of welfare and humanitarianism. The afternoon will see papers given by researchers based at UK institutions will give papers on aspects of the transnational history of European welfare states.
SUMMER WORKSHOP
This workshop will build on the network established at and key themes emerging from the spring workshop. It will offer overseas researchers an opportunity to present their transnational or comparative research on the history of European welfare states, with particular attention to the role of civil society and social economy.
The workshops are free and open to all, but registration will be required.
For more information, please Dr George Campbell Gosling, at
