Comments on ‘Towards a European System of Social Indicators.pptVIP

Comments on ‘Towards a European System of Social Indicators: Theoretical Framework and Systems Architecture’ by Heinz-Herbert Noll Julia S. O’Connor University of Ulster June 20th, 2006 The European System of Social Indicators (ESSI) developed by Heinz-Herbert Noll has considerable relevance for the proposed Well-Being Indicators framework being developed at JRC. My comments are directed to pointing to its relevance for the suggested 4 pillar structure underlying this framework – Economic, Social, Environment, and Culture and Politics pillars – particularly the Social pillar. European System of Social Indicators  is based on a sound theoretical and conceptual framework. Theoretical framework based on ideas of Quality of life Social Cohesion Sustainability Each of these concepts plays a role in European politics and many EU policy objectives are closely related to them. ESSI Based on this theoretical and conceptual framework a comprehensive system of social indicators is proposed. These derive from 13 life domains which are analysed with reference to 6 dimensions of welfare and 2 dimensions of social change Dimensions and sub-dimensions of measurement are identified. ESSI Life Domains Population Household and Family Housing Labour market and working conditions Education and vocational training Income, Standard of Living, Consumption Patterns Social Security Health Transport Leisure, Media and Culture Social and political participation and integration Environment Public safety and crime ESSI and Well-Being Indicators? The comprehensive nature of the ESSI means that it potentially provides indicators relating to at least three of the four pillars underlying the proposed Well-Being Index: Economic policy Social policy Environment Culture and politics The 4 pillar structure conforms to varying degrees to policy divisions in most countries but the life domains included under the various headings are to some extent arbitra