The Role of the Welfare State in the Necessary Socio-ecological Transformation

The study outlines the foundations of an eco-social welfare state. It shows the extent to which the welfare state, as a key actor in a successful socio-ecological transformation, can improve the living conditions of the population, ensure resilience to crises and at the same time reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In this context, the expansion of public services and infrastructure as well as labour market policies have a special role to play. Aspects of the interdependence of social and climate policy issues are taken into account. It examines how climate change and climate protection measures affect different groups of persons in the short and long term, which social policy instruments are suitable for responding to new social risks, and which welfare state measures have a direct or indirect impact on Austrian greenhouse gas emissions. Key findings will be included in the Social Report 2024.