Inequality , Education and Comparative Political Economy

This report investigates the evolution of economic inequalities and the drivers behind these inequalities. The authors’ economic and political analysis of developments in the labour markets and education and training systems of Germany and the UK, two countries marked by significant differences in political, economic and educational infrastructure, provides fresh contexts for thinking in these areas. The role played by changing political and industrial relations coalitions in the German political economy in the inclusion or exclusion of low-income groups is compared with the middle-class focus of the UK political system. The authors offer new insights to help shape policy for those seeking to maintain the difficult and delicate balance between social equity and economic efficiency.