Convergence of Social lnsurance and Social Welfare (Public Assistance)

Abstract

“Poverty of theory” has been pointed out on social security. Having in perspective the structural change accompanying the population ageing, and also responding to the current issues with regard to the care system for the elderly, a new paradigm for social security is being required.

In this essasy, both from the historical perspective on relationship of economy and social security and the international comparisons, status of social security today is characterized as the convergence of social insurance and social welfare (public assistance). Based on this understanding, future directions of social security in Japan is discussed.