Abstract

URIBE GOMEZ, Mónica. Contemporary focus on social policy in Mexico. Espiral (Guadalaj.) [online]. 2011, vol.18, n.52, pp.37-75. ISSN 1665-0565.

This article discusses the signifcance and reach of concepts such as Welfare State, Welfare Regime, social protection systems, social risk management and basic universalism. It is argued that trends in social policy, beyond the influence of government programs, or purely technical factors, are related to other kinds of arrangements within society and its political processes in order to provide welfare. Specifically, political directions and trasitions are traced in Mexican society from the 1940’s, when the welfare institutions were created, and the "corporatist pact" was enforced, until the neo-liberal approaches in vogue since the 1980’s, when structural adjustments were introduced, and more recently the universalization of basic social services. The intention is not to focus on specific actions or in the impact of transformations, but on the implications entailed by focusing on a particular approach in the field of social policy.

Keywords : social policy; Mexico; Welfare State; Welfare Regime; social protection systems; social risk management; basic universalism.

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