The concepts of social economy and solidarity economy, while distinct, have closely evolved over time. The social economy focuses on entrepreneurial aspects, while the solidarity economy emphasises social justice. Recently, these concepts have been integrated, particularly within the United Nations framework. Since 2014, the UN has combined these under the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE), recognising their crucial role in advancing the 2030 Agenda and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In April 2023, the UN General Assembly reinforced this by passing a resolution promoting SSE for sustainable development, acknowledging its role in localising the SDGs.
At the European level, significant progress has been made in supporting SSE. The EU Commission approved an Action Plan for the social economy in December 2021, followed by the European Council’s recommendation in November 2023, urging the adoption of national strategies for SSE development. As part of the European Pillar of Social Rights, the EU’s strategy views the social economy as essential for a just transition, fostering digital and green transitions, providing sustainable goods and services, and addressing social gaps within the single market.
Territorial and Institutional Contexts
Despite progress in regional convergence, Central Europe still exhibits economic and social disparities, particularly between Eastern and Western regions. Life expectancy and living conditions vary significantly, reflecting deep-rooted inequalities. Addressing these disparities requires strong community engagement and bridging the gap between public and private sectors.
The 3P4SSE project conceptualizes SSE as encompassing diverse entities prioritizing societal purpose over profit. This approach has led to the creation of quality jobs, social integration initiatives, and environmentally sustainable practices. However, Central European regions show varying degrees of maturity in institutionalising SSE, ranging from established social economy frameworks to emerging economies still developing public-private partnerships.
The 3P4SSE project developed a Joint Strategy on 3Ps
The Joint Strategy on 3Ps to Support Social and Solidarity Economy marks a significant initiative developed by project partners within the Interreg 3P4SSE project. This strategy aims to advance Local Action Plans through a strategic, three-pronged approach: divided into three sections, it outlines the foundational principles of the social economy, a detailed policy agenda, and an actionable framework—all designed to drive the regional social economy forward.
The Joint Strategy on 3Ps recognises SSE’s pivotal role in achieving sustainable development and promoting local development through robust social economy ecosystems and clusters. The strategy broadens the focus from social inclusion to social innovation, fully integrating disadvantaged groups, introducing new services driven by digitisation and technological transformation, and fostering proactive social dynamics.
The strategy’s policy objectives include raising collective awareness, creating supportive social economy clusters through public-private partnerships, ensuring economic sustainability and resilience, and fostering innovation in development paradigms. These objectives are designed to maximize SSE’s impact in Central European regions.
Structure and Implementation
The Joint Strategy is structured around four key policy areas: joint investments, social business models, capacity building, and advocacy and impact. Joint investments aim to create supportive environments and innovate social economy ecosystems. Social business models focus on enhancing competitiveness and maximising social impact. Capacity building equips social economy organisations with the skills to navigate challenges and transformations. Advocacy and impact increase the visibility and influence of social economy organisations in policy decision-making.
To facilitate social innovation and collaboration with public authorities, the strategy includes policy tools such as social procurement, fiscal policies, labeling, General Block Exemption Regulation, and services of general economic interest. These tools are designed to foster market access and support SSE entities.
Sustainability and future prospects
Starting in March 2024, project partners will formalise their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding, ensuring the sustainability and continuation of the strategy beyond the project’s end. This protocol will define roles, responsibilities, and procedures, ensuring that collaborative efforts continue to thrive.
The strategy exemplifies the power of collective action and strategic planning. By fostering robust SSE ecosystems, it aims to create a more equitable, sustainable future for Central Europe, bridging gaps and driving regional development through innovative and inclusive approaches.