Welfare state: defining the problem

Introduction. In the modern system of statebuilding the welfare state, as a concept, the genesis of which is associated with the need to resolve the aggravated social contradictions, is a fundamental principle, destined to determine the content of state policy. Notwithstanding the fact that the most comprehensive view of the welfare state concept was formed relatively recently, the description of certain features of the welfare state as a specific phenomenon of social life is seen in the works of philosophers and lawyers of various historical schools and eras. It allows us to conclude that the institution of state immanently has the characteristic of “welfare”. The dynamism of the social relations development entails the permanent search for new approaches to the welfare state and the constant appeal to this principle in order to get the full and comprehensive disclosure of the constitutional provisions and ensure their direct action.

Materials and methods. The theoretical basis of this work is the scientific works of philosophers and lawyers adhering to the legal positivism. The methodological basis of the research is the formal logical method, the method of system analysis, structural and functional method.

Results. This article is devoted to basic propositions of the welfare state legal analysis; it includes analysis of the essence of the welfare state concept based on positivistic understanding of law in various historic periods; this article also analyzes some aspects of the welfare state concept regarding human rights protection and constitutional review.

Discussion and conclusion. The principle of the welfare state is presented as the positive duty of the public authorities to ensure social and economic human rights and the balance of social interests. The implementation of the principle of the welfare state strongly depends on the constitutional review bodies’ activities, the main purpose of which is to specify the content of the relevant constitutional rules within the framework of specific social relations.

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