Current Social Policy Developments in the Czech and Slovak Republics

Abstract

Both in the Czech republic and Slovakia, social policy is at a crossroads. Having inherited many techniques and features of the Commu nist past, it must contend with rapidly chang ing economic and political conditions while its experts seek new orientations, priorities, and instruments. This process embodies ideological and power conflicts - including diverse politi cal orientations of the Czech and Slovak republics - as well. Considered here are recent developments in industrial relations and employment policy, social security, medical care, housing, education, social support and care. The development of industrial relations is characterized by the establishment of tripartite institutions, the persistent low authority of Trade Unions, the preservation of social peace with nearly no strikes, and rising rates of unemployment - especially in Slovakia. The Labour Offices, once established, tried to de velop a comprehensive employment policy. Social and health mandatory insurance was introduced from the beginning of 1993. This decision broke down the old system of financ ing based on general taxation. Up to 1993, very little changes occurred in education and housing policies and in personal social ser vices. At the end of the article, possible future social policy developments in the Czech republic and Slovakia are discussed. Czech social policy is likely to be more corporatist- conservative, whereas the Slovak one will probably preserve at least some features of cumbersome redistributive mechanisms depen dent heavily or exclusively on the state budget.