Guest talk: Detlef Jahn

Abstract
This paper analyzes redistribution effects during retrenchment and crisis in 31 welfare states by using a new dataset from a refined analysis of unemployment replacement rates of low, middle and high income levels (CWED2). Starting by identifying four distribution regimes before the economic crisis, the analysis shows that these regimes determine the redistribution of unemployment benefits during the period of retrenchment. As expected, equality-oriented capitalism redistributes in favor of the low-income levels and status-oriented and competitiveness-oriented capitalism have no redistribution effects. More interesting is the redistribution effect of a fourth regime type which favors high-income groups and which is present in both Western (Mediterranean) as well as Central and Eastern European countries. Another intriguing finding is that – with some notable exceptions – the period of retrenchment has been characterized by sparing the low-income groups from severe cuts. This has changed in the current economic crisis where this group has experienced severe cuts in their benefits. The reaction to the crisis is also more strongly determined by immediate needs and is not as well explained by the distribution regimes. 

About Detlef Jahn
Detlef Jahn has – together with Scruggs and Kuito – produced the highly popular Welfare Entitlement Dataset (CWED2) and influential articles on corporatism (in Socio Economic Review), Left-Right/party positions (in Party Politics), party cohesion (in Scandinavian Political Studies), and how to best analyze (welfare) policy diffusion (in International Organization). His recent book “The Politics of Environmental Performance” is now available at Cambridge University Press. 

For further info check out
http://comparativepolitics.uni-greifswald.de/index.html
http://cwed2.org/

We hope to see you at the talk!
All best wishes,
Carsten and Alex