Alternatives to Neoliberalism - Revisiting the Social Market Economy

During this panel the focus will be directed on the topic of strengthening the role of government and market regulations. A social democratic government has the responsibility of protecting its people from poverty and social discrimination. Thus, the government´s role includes intervention in the market to promote social justice. Regulations to stabilize the market, labor laws and income distribution through progressive taxation are common measures, but the extent to which they should be applied is highly debated. Social discontent and unrests, such as the 2011 social protests in Israel present opportunities for social democratic parties to position themselves and to promote their ideas. However, many parties seem to have difficulties with doing exactly that.

Guiding Questions:

• How can we achieve a balance between market regulation to promote social justice and a market economy that is only oriented towards growth?
• Are we in need of a new social democratic economic model that offers a strong alternative to neoliberalism?
• How can social democratic parties react to social discontent, especially among young people and use it to gain votes?

Speakers: