Spanish Society After Franco investigates the origins of collective social welfare from the early nineteenth century, to set the context for an analysis of contemporary social policy from the perspective of economic and political trends since the transition of democracy in the mid-1970s. The review of policy evolution is complemented by an examination of the critical impact of social change, particularly the decline of the power of the church, regional devolution, the gender dimension and social exclusion.

The searches by European Union major states for 'joined up' approaches to inner city regeneration are examined thematically through a focus on policy evolution since the mid-1970s. Key issues addressed include the physical, social, employment, and urban security agenda. The product of long-term research, drawing on extensive qualitative and quantitative sources at national level, backed by in-depth case study investigation of five large cities, the book assesses how contemporary urban rejuvenation is being regulated, including the increasing contribution of the European Union.