The Danish model of 'flexicurity': An example to be followed?

During the last years, there has been a growing interest all over Europe for the Danish 'model' of flexicurity. The Danish combination of flexibility for the employers and security for the employees and the populations would be an example to follow, mainly because of the successes met in the fight against unemployment during the 1990's. This paper takes a close look at the core elements of the Danish case to determine whether these views are relevant. The three elements of the Danish 'golden triangle' are flexible labour market, a generous welfare system, and an active labour marker policy. These elements are analysed, as well as the 1993 labour market reform, which is supposed to have triggered the remarkable decrease of unemployment that took place in Denmark since 1997. The core features of the Danish case are examined to determine whether the Danish model could be exported, in particular in Poland, where mass unemployment is an issue.