Organised by The Foundation for Law, Justice and Society

University of Oxford, 7-9 October 2009

The twenty-first century presents significant new challenges for the welfare state, most immediately from the current economic crash, but also from longer term problems in the form of international conflict and environmental catastrophes.

This conference will assess the effects that various crises may have on political mindset, on institutions, and on attitudes towards the market and towards the state.

It will give special attention to the effect that such changes may and should have on minorities and on women.

The conference includes a keynote lecture and workshop, as detailed below.

7 October, 5.30 pm

Keynote Lecture: Black Swans and Elephants on the Move: How Emergencies Impact on the Welfare State

Lecture Hall, Manor Road Building, Manor Rd, Oxford OX1 3UQ

Professor Frank Castles, Australian National University and University of Edinburgh. This lecture asks how unexpected emergencies – the ‘Black Swans’ of war, economic depression, terrorist incidents and environmental catastrophes – can help to enact welfare reform.

Are welfare institutions so entrenched and resistant to changes in direction as 'elephants on the move', or can we still adapt to the unpredictable major incidents of the 21st Century with significant reforms such as President Obama's healthcare plan?

For further details and to book tickets, please visit www.fljs.org/Events

8-9 October 2009

Workshop: The Social Contract in Hard Times

Queen's College, Oxford OX1 4AW

1. Historical Perspectives
2. Hard Times and Institutions: Social and Environmental Policy
3. A New Look at Domestic and International, or More of the Same?
4. Different Times for Different Groups: Women and Minorities

To register your interest, please email phil.dines@fljs.org

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