Women’s Policy Machinery in Italy between European Pressure and Domestic Constraints

Abstract

In comparative studies, Italy is considered as having a ‘Mediterranean welfare state regime’ (Ferrera, 1993; Esping Andersen, 2000) based on the central role of the family as an institution which ensures social protection with a minimum state intervention (Naldini, 2003; Saraceno, 2003). Recent data concerning EU countries before enlargement confirm the shortage of resources earmarked for family policies in Italy (about 4 per cent of overall expenses) as compared with a European average of 8 per cent (Eurostat, 2005).