New modes of governance in activation policies

Purpose This editorial aims to introduce the first of a set of two special issues on New modes of governance in activation policies. Design/methodology/approach The article explores the concept of governance, distinguishing a broad and more narrow use of the concept. Then, it argues that issues of governance should be an integral part of studies of welfare state transformations. Not in the last instance, because governance reforms do have an impact on the content of social policies and social services such as activation. The article continues by discussing three models of the provision of social services. Findings The article states that the development of the modes of governance in activation in various countries reveals that a mix of service provision models is being used. Originality/value The article introduces the articles of the special issue.