Individual need and societal claims: Challenging the understanding of universalism versus selectivism in social policy

In this article, we argue that basic social policy concepts can fertilise the discussion on active labour market (ALMP). During last decades, research ALMP has become a flourishing field. This is an overall positive development. However, development tends to fractionate wider picture of and distance from seen as multifold set government measures have direct impact welfare citizens, by providing services and/or income. We analyse local programme in light three classical concepts: universalism, selectivism need. To understand what going programmes, it important uncover claims made state satisfy human needs most often presented objectives programmes. propose under study be characterised hybrid, combining elements frequently perceived dichotomies literature. Selectivism universalism are both present principles consists benefits cash kind.