The Third Sector and the Welfare State

This chapter explores the symbiotic relationship between the voluntary sector and the welfare state. It begins by critically exploring the ways in which voluntary organizations have been defined in terms of the relationship with the public and private sectors. Next, it looks at how geographical nuance helps to explain variation in the nature of voluntary sectors in different countries by drawing on comparative voluntary sector studies. Central to this analysis is the relationship between the voluntary sector and the welfare state and their twin evolution and interdependence. Through the discussion of Social Origins theory and further work, a framework for comparative voluntary sector studies is established and critiqued. Finally, this chapter explores whether and how globalization might impact on this relationship and whether there are certain factors that should be present in all state-voluntary sector relationships.