Introduction

Abstract

Western countries have put forward several definitions of “social welfare”, while China defines it as “a system that is designed to improve the quality of life of all citizens, particularly those in difficulty”. The notion of “welfare state” stems from Britain. The Beveridge Report released in 1942 established the basic framework of the post-war British welfare state, and became a blueprint for other western countries to follow. The development of China’s social welfare system is split into three periods: 1949–1978, 1979–1997 and 1998–present. The system reconstruction started from 1978 is not only a component and continuation of the market-oriented reform, but a component and continuation of China’s social transition and social development in the future.