A3 Refereed book chapter or chapter in a compilation book

How to understand interventions in welfare state policy context;




AuthorsPeltoniemi, Johanna; Herkama, Sanna; Karvonen, Sakari; Muuri, Anu

EditorsErola, Jani; Moisio, Pasi; Peltoniemi, Johanna

PublisherEdward Elgar Publishing

Publication year2026

Book title Beyond the Nordic Welfare State : Extending Social Investments with Interventions

First page 53

Last page63

ISBN978-1-03537-543-1

eISBN978-1-03537-544-8

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.4337/9781035375448.00010

Publication's open availability at the time of reportingOpen Access

Publication channel's open availability Open Access publication channel

Web address https://doi.org/10.4337/9781035375448.00010

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/523615840

Self-archived copy's licenceCC BY NC ND

Self-archived copy's versionPublisher`s PDF


Abstract

Welfare states have increasingly moved from income transfers and passive protection towards service provision, investments in human capital, and proactive interventions. This chapter explores how the social investment framework can be extended with interventions to address its limitations, especially in relation to acute risks and inequalities. We define interventions broadly as strategies or actions that target individuals, groups, or environments to promote well-being, prevent risks, or mitigate existing problems across the life course. Drawing on examples from health, education, and social policy, we illustrate how interventions can be classified by scope, timing, objectives, and target groups. We also discuss methodological approaches to evaluating effectiveness and cost-effectiveness, highlighting both randomised controlled trials and alternative designs. Finally, we examine the challenges of implementation and scaling, noting the long time lags between evidence and practice. Together, these insights demonstrate how interventions, when effectively designed and embedded, can become persistent social investments within modern welfare states.


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Last updated on 29/05/2026 11:32:25 AM