Meaningful employment opportunities for people who are distant from the labour market

There is a lack of work, and has been for a long time. This is the situation facing an increasing number of people due to the specific developments in the era of Industry 4.0. Unemployment is one of the major challenges of our time. If this issue remains unresolved, there is a risk of massive social conflict. Anyone without a role in society lacks a sense of purpose in life. The book *Dignified Work Options for People Excluded from the Labour Market* examines the root causes of long-term unemployment. It explores insights into the concept of work and places them in the context of the significance of work for people. Unemployment becomes a problem under highly individual circumstances. As a rule, people affected over many months are dependent on support to cope with their situation. Although societal solutions exist, the challenge for the long-term unemployed themselves persists. The book highlights limitations in the current approach to this challenge by the Federal Employment Agency and the job centres. Reflections in the final chapter offer new perspectives that challenge previously established boundaries and encourage further thought.