Evaluate the social changes in one western or northern European country (other than France, the Federal Republic of Germany and Spain) between 1945–2000.

The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the social changes in one western or northern European country (other than France, the Federal Republic of Germany and Spain) between 1945–2000. Candidates may refer to the emergence of democracies and the changes they brought in terms of freedom of speech and freedom of association. Candidates may also evaluate changes in the population due to migrations and/or population growth. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example the foundation of welfare states that allowed governments to offer education and health services. Some candidates may discuss the declining influence of religion in society, for example in Italy. Candidates may also refer to the recognition of minorities’ rights and the introduction of gender issues to the political agenda as examples of social changes. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates make an appraisal of the social changes in one western or northern European country, (other than France, the Federal Republic of Germany and Spain), between 1945-2000. Few responses were seen to this question. In some cases, there was good, detailed knowledge provided. However, in other cases, there was a tendency to narrative and generalisations.