Institution building and active labour market policies in Vienna since the 1990s

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an analysis of local institution building in active labour market policies (ALMP) in Vienna (Austria). The focus of the study is the WAFF (“Wiener ArbeitnehmerInnenförderungsfonds” – Vienna employee support fund) which was created in 1995.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study was conducted for the Capright‐project (Resources, rights and capabilities). It is based on a documentary analysis, interviews with experts, policy makers and managers of the WAFF and the Public Employment Service.

Findings

While the national system of labour market policy is increasingly moving towards workfare, the analysis shows that the WAFF aims to implement a more inclusive approach to secure social cohesion through programmes and measures to help people to cope with economic restructuring – in particular through training and skill development but also measures to fight social exclusion. A strong reliance on Social Partnership and cooperation pervades the self‐understanding of the WAFF even though institution building was not evolving without conflicts.

Research limitations/implications

The research sheds some light on social and economic developments in Vienna. Further research is needed to come to an in‐depth analysis of the effects of the WAFF's labour market policy activities, e.g. in relation to the national Public Employment Service.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the research about the evolution of labour market policies in cities in the context of recent economic, political and social changes.

Citation

Atzmüller, R. (2009), "Institution building and active labour market policies in Vienna since the 1990s", International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, Vol. 29 No. 11/12, pp. 599-611. https://doi.org/10.1108/01443330910999041