The ideology of EU social policy : a sociological analysis of EU funded employment programmes in Malta

Abstract

This dissertation analyses the political ideologies of EU funded employment programmes in Malta. The European Social Fund supports employment in member states of the European Union as well as promotes economic and social cohesion. This dissertation, therefore, aims to find out what are the discursive priorities and the main ideological orientations behind employment programmes in Malta, financed by the European Social Fund. Various topics are investigated such as the aims and effects of EU funded employment programmes in Malta; Equality, social cohesion and the welfare state; employability, human capital and social policy. One major conclusion derived from this thesis is that the Third way ideology is very influential in EU funded employment programmes in Malta. The aspect of individuals freedom is also supported by employment programmes and therefore some Neo-liberal influence is also present. It also became evident from this study that with the help of these employment programmes, Malta's current welfare scheme is evolving and becoming more third way.