Social Economy Europe has recently held two webinars focusing on the strategic role of the social economy in Europe: one dedicated to its contribution to competitiveness and reindustrialisation, and another to its function as a pillar of European democracy.
The first, entitled “Social Economy as a Driver of Competitiveness: Reindustrialisation & Locally Rooted Economies”, highlighted the potential of the social economy to drive sustainable, place-based reindustrialisation. It emphasised its capacity to create quality jobs, strengthen local value chains and contribute to Europe’s strategic autonomy.
During the session, it was underlined that social economy enterprises, due to their territorial roots and participatory governance, can play a key role in Europe’s industrial transformation, particularly in sectors undergoing transition. Participants also stressed the need for public policies that recognise this role, facilitating access to finance, markets and appropriate regulatory frameworks.
The second webinar, “Social Economy as a Pillar of Democracy: European Democracy & the Social Economy”, explored the sector’s contribution to economic democracy and citizen participation. In this context, it was highlighted that social economy entities not only generate economic activity, but also promote core European Union values such as inclusion, social cohesion and democratic participation.
Discussions focused on how the social economy strengthens democracy by fostering business models based on the participation of workers and other stakeholders, as well as its role in revitalising local communities and building a more active citizenry.
Both webinars brought together European institutional representatives, academic experts and sector stakeholders, including the President of Social Economy Europe, Juan Antonio Pedreño; Michael Damianos, Cyprus’ Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry; Ana Umbelino, President of REVES; Isabelle Ferreras, Research director at the Belgian National Fund for Scientific Research; and Giuseppe Guerini, President of Cooperatives Europe. All agreed that the social economy is a key driver in addressing Europe’s current challenges, both economic and democratic.
The sessions highlighted a growing convergence between the agendas of competitiveness, industrial transition and democratic strengthening, positioning the social economy as a central actor in the future of the European project.
