This chapter provides a comparative review of key developments in the design and implementation of benefit systems, employment and training programmes and employment service arrangements in seven OECD countries. An active orientation of these policies helps to mobilise jobseekers into employment and avoid benefit dependency. The chapter draws on a series of country reviews of activation policies in Ireland, Norway, Finland, Switzerland, Japan and Australia as well as on the preliminary findings from the United Kingdom review. It provides insights into the lessons that can be learnt from the activation policies that have worked in these countries as well as the pitfalls to avoid.