Financial Exclusion in Europe

Abstract

This article outlines the nature, causes and extent of financial exclusion in Europe and discusses policy/industry responses to tackling it. Policy response has been ad hoc and country specific. Policy-making by the EC has been disappointing; national solutions are preferred to US-style affirmative action. The offer of basic banking accounts typically lies at the heart of many countries' efforts to increase financial inclusion and they are a common feature of European policy.