The evolution of inequality of opportunity in Europe

摘要

The paper tests whether inequality of opportunity (IO) in Europe has increased between 2004 and 2010. IO is understood as unfair inequality due to circumstances beyond individual control (such as family background, race or sex). We show that over 2004-2010 IO increased significantly in Austria, Greece and Spain, while it decreased in Poland and Portugal. Relative IO (ratio of IO to overall income inequality) has grown in Austria, Belgium, Greece and Norway. In Greece, several social groups with an immigrant background have experienced sizable declines an opportunity for income acquisition.