Vasa (Welfare, Labour Market Policies, and Social Responsibility)

Vasa (Welfare, Labour Market Policies, and Social Responsibility) is a multi-disciplinary research group that gathers members interested in the welfare state, focusing especially on labour market policies and how they affect individuals, families, and societies. It includes questions of income, such as social insurance and social assistance, and education, focusing among other things on school-work transitions and lifelong learning. The research concerns different analytical levels, including cross-country comparisons, public administration, and interactions between clients and caseworkers. Furthermore, the research is characterised by methodological diversity, from investigations of register data to ethnographic approaches, as well as mixed methods.

The members of Vasa produce research that benefits society and is relevant to individuals, families, and societies. Many of Vasa's members collaborate with public and private actors to support their work, thereby contributing to the development of labour market policies. Meanwhile, the research is grounded in a critical perspective to also problematise how the welfare state is organised, as well as acknowledging structural possibilities and barriers that affect both organisations and individuals.

Research leader: Alexandru Panican 
Coordinator: John Brauer