Among the tools of labour market, public works is one of the oldest; therefore its use is almost natural. Although at the same time it is the aim of public works, the extent and targetedness of its use which decide whether public works functions as an active tool of employment policy or rather as a socio-political tool to manage poverty. Connecting welfare to public works (workfare) can only be understood related to reintegration efforts aiming at the unemployed and also to fighting poverty.
