SOCIO-ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF INCOME INEQUALITY IN EUROPE

The motivation behind this book comes from both my academic curiosity and a deep sense of responsibility to understand one of the most pressing issues of our time—income inequality. Over the last four years, I have dedicated myself to examining how this complex phenomenon has unfolded across Europe during some of the most economically challenging years in recent history. From the global financial crisis to the COVID-19 pandemic, this period between 2007 and 2021 has revealed the vulnerabilities and strengths of European economies, with inequality emerging as a central concern. As I worked on this book, what began as a technical analysis soon became a more personal exploration of how economic forces impact real lives. The research, while grounded in quantitative analysis, made me realize the profound human impact behind the numbers. My aim is for this book to not only contribute to scholarly discussions but also serve as a practical resource for policymakers, economists, and those who strive to create more equitable societies. Through analyzing the interplay of macroeconomic, demographic, and political factors, this work seeks NOTES BY THE AUTHOR x SOCIO-ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF INCOME INEQUALITY IN EUROPE to provide a deeper understanding of the forces that shape income inequality, particularly in times of crisis. These four years of research have been both challenging and rewarding, and this book is the culmination of that e£ort. I am grateful to the mentors and colleagues who supported me along the way, and I dedicate this work to all those who continue to strive for greater economic fairness in the world