Research Themes - Inclusive Prosperity: Economies, Work & Inequalities

Inclusive Prosperity: Economies, Work & Inequalities

This research theme explores how economic systems, work and social institutions shape inequality and opportunity in transforming societies. It examines the distribution of resources, power and life chances, with a focus on equity, labour, welfare and economic governance. The research advances understanding of how more inclusive forms of prosperity can be created across diverse social and economic contexts.

(opens in a new window)

WorkPoliticsBIP

Led by Professor Rosana Pinheiro-Machado of the UCD School of Geography, WorkPoliticsBIP explores how precarious platform work intersects with the rise of authoritarian politics in Brazil, India and the Philippines. Combining ethnography and data science, the project examines how insecurity, aspiration and digital labour shape political attitudes in emerging economies.

(opens in a new window)

EqualHouse

Led by Professor Michelle Norris of the UCD School of Social Policy, Social Work and Social Justice, EqualHouse examines the scale and causes of housing inequality across Europe and identifies sustainable, inclusive and affordable policy solutions. Working closely with policymakers and housing stakeholders, the project combines comparative research and co-creation to strengthen housing policy and practice across local, national and European levels.

Should history change the way we think about populism?

Led by Alan de Bromhead at the UCD School of Economics and his colleague Kevin Hjortshøj O’Rourke, this research uses economic history to reassess how populism is understood today. It challenges common assumptions, clarifies how the term is often misapplied, and shows why historical context matters for debates on democracy, economic policy, and political risk.