This revealing study examines the important, but little known, involvement of employers’ and workers’ organizations, academics, professionals, and experts in developing and reforming public policy. It illustrates the variety of approaches that can be taken to pensions by analyzing the schemes of seven industrialized countries: the U.S., the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, Sweden, Italy, and Spain. The book shows how these groups and conservative bodies work-in conjunction with government administrations-to run pension systems. The study traces the activities of these groups, the forms of dialogue used, and the routes followed in the implementation of change. It reflects on how their work is “the hidden face” of recent pension reform and shows how various forms of consultation, negotiation, and public debate can ensure the long-term viability of systems. It reviews the mechanisms and institutional structures involved in the conception and implementation of reforms, highlights common features, and evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of national social dialogue on the pension issue. At a time when pensions are a major topic of debate, this book is a welcome and valuable contribution to the discussion.
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