The goal of this book is to provide a comprehensive analysis of family policies across the
globe. The volume includes 29 chapters each focusing on family policies in countries from all around
the world. Family policies are de fi ned as government activities that are designed to support families
and enhance family members’ well-being. Each chapter provides an overview of the impact of the
historical, cultural, and socioeconomic context on families and family policy development. The chapters
also provide a review of family policies in different countries, with a focus on family policies
targeting marriage (e.g., family code, domestic violence), child-rearing, and work-family balance
(e.g., parental, maternity, and paternity leaves; child support) and family policies supporting families
at risk (e.g., support for families in poverty, for family members with disabilities, for elderly family
members). Family policy implementation and assessment are also discussed, along with recommendations
for further improvements. The fi rst chapter sets the stage for the book, providing a justi fi cation
for the volume and an overview of the included chapters.