Framework and Criteria for Restructuring the Austrian Social Security System

The Austrian social security system as a model of the Bismarckian Welfare System, suffers from the increasing numbers of de-standardised employment forms and increasing flexibility of employment income. Not only individuals face a higher risk of income insecurity but also the financial basis of defined contribution systems faces structural bottlenecks. The paper analyses recent labour force developments in Austria and discusses criteria and starting points of restructuring the Austrian social security system.