Large Families in the EU Countries: A Comparison of Support Schemes and Outcomes
Large Families in the EU Countries: A Comparison of Support Schemes and Outcomes

Summary/Abstract: While knowledge about family policy in the European Union (EU) has increased considerably in the last two decades, we know relatively little about policies directed at large families. This paper aims to compare family support schemes affecting large families in the EU countries. Based on welfare regimes and family support models (Esping-Andersen, 1990; Korpi, 2000; Kuronen 2010), we categorize the selected EU countries into five groups, and we explore what configuration of support measures is most effective in meeting the needs of large families, and what are the outcomes of family policy in each country and group of countries. Our analysis is based on previous literature review, and MISSOC and Eurostat data. The findings show that the needs of large families are most effectively met (as evidenced by high rates of third and higher order births, high total fertility rates and relatively low rates of poverty and social exclusion), first, in the Nordic countries, second, in Continental countries, and third, in the examined post-socialist countries. The support for large families is still dependent on the overall design (support to families with children) and generosity (monetary inputs) of the family policy of the given country, and the differences between countries can still be explained by the ideal-typical family policy model prevailing in the country.

• Details
• Contents