Comparing Denmark and Spain: Two different kinds of ALMP decentralization

Abstract

In this paper, we review the recent Danish and Spanish economic situation to underline the effects of the economic crisis in each country. We then present the different kinds of employment policy decentralization pursued by each country, revealing that, in spite of their great differences, they are not so far apart in some aspects. Finally, we clarify the main ideas underlying the Danish flexicurity model in order to find those elements that may result useful for Spain, taking its special features into account and showing how some recent changes makes the Danish case less interesting for Spanish necessities. We stress the possibilities of the local level as a point in common to develop active policies focused on enhancing human capital.