Gender Equality in Social Assistance? Transforming Norms and Practices in Different Regions of Switzerland

We will present the initial findings of the ongoing SNSF-research project by Prof. Dr. Lucia Lanfranconi and Prof. Dr. Carola Togni on "Gender Equality in Social Assistance? Transforming Norms and Practices at a Client, Frontline, Organizational, and Policy Level in Different Regions of Switzerland." Historically, women have been over-represented in social assistance due to norms framing men as breadwinners and women as caregivers. These norms have been challenged by the ‘activation paradigm,’ which promotes work integration for all adults. However, the implementation of this shift towards the implementation of a new adult worker model varies across regions, affecting clients differently. Our project examines how changing gender equality norms in social assistance are applied across different levels and regions. We aim to identify mechanisms, factors and practices at all levels that promote gender equality from an intersectional perspective, as well as those that hinder it. Specifically, we will discuss our initial findings, based on triangulation with “Wissenssoziologische Diskursanalyse” (Keller) on the evolution of gender norms set by the Swiss Conference for Social Welfare Institutions (CSIAS), as well as legislative changes in three cantons – VD, BE, LU – over the past 30 years.