Social investment in action: Symposium and launch of special issue

This symposium marks the launch of a special issue of Acta Sociologica edited by Ditte Andersen, Professor MSO (VIVE), and Magnus Paulsen Hansen, Associate Professor (RUC), bringing together leading scholars on the concept, history, and future of social investment policies. Through research presentations and a concluding panel discussion, the event examines how social investment has evolved across welfare states, how it is implemented and contested in practice, and where it may be heading next.

The symposium will be of interest to all with a professional interest in social policy and welfare state development. The aim is to stimulate academic debate and critical reflection on the role, promises, and future directions of social investment in contemporary social policy.

Program

14.00 Welcome and introduction

Magnus Paulsen, Roskilde University, & Ditte Andersen, VIVE – The Danish Center for Social Science Research

14.15 What’s so new about social investment? Evidence from the history of the Danish welfare state

Anders Sevelsted, Copenhagen Business School & Troels Krarup, Aalborg University

14.30 The rise and fall of social investment practices in Sweden

Mats Fred, Lund University

14.45 Stepping-stone solidarity: The normative foundation of the social investment state

Azizjon Bagadirov, Anton Hemerijck & Pablo Puertas Roig, European University Institute

15.00 Social investment policies at the street level: Challenges in practice

Mathias Herup Nielsen, Aalborg University

15.15 Panel discussion: The future of social investment policies

Presenters engage in dialogue to highlight key tensions, insights and directions for future research. The discussion is curated by the editors and will include opportunities for audience questions and engagement.

15.40 Closing reception with refreshments

Join us for drinks, snacks and informal discussion to round off the symposium.