Welfare States as a Challenge of Globalization

This article investigates the complex and evolving relationship between globalization and the transformation of welfare states, emphasizing their role within the framework of contemporary international politics and global governance. The object of analysis is the welfare state as a core institution of social protection, initially developed during the industrial era and currently undergoing systemic pressures under global socio-economic, financial, and digital transformations. Special attention is paid to the analysis of the European model of the welfare state, its institutional features, and its ability to adapt to global challenges, such as economic liberalization, labor mobility, digitalization, and growing inequality. The theoretical framework of the study was the provisions of European policy documents. Within the scope of international political analysis, the article highlights the tension between the social functions of the state and the demands of the global market. Methodologically, the research applies an interdisciplinary approach that integrates international relations theory, social policy analysis, comparative political economy, and institutional analysis. The article provides a detailed comparison of Scandinavian, Continental, and Liberal welfare regimes, examining their resilience to globalization-induced challenges. Key factors such as financial mobility, labor migration, digitalization of welfare services, and systemic crises (economic, health, and security) are discussed. It is argued that the European welfare state model demonstrates adaptability to globalization by maintaining core social standards. Emphasis is placed on the importance of institutional context, social dialogue, public sector capacity, and state intervention as factors of resilience.The European Union is analyzed as a supranational entity that, despite internal tensions, remains committed to the principles of the welfare state through legal instruments, strategic documents, solidarity mechanisms, and political consensus. Particular attention is given to institutional flexibility in delivering social services. The article also examines the Ukrainian context as an example of a state striving to approach European social standards in the face of war, the refugee crisis, economic instability, recovery challenges, and budgetary constraints. It is concluded that globalization is not only a source of threats but also a medium for transnational diffusion of welfare models.