European Commission releases mid-term review of social economy action plan
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
- Prosperous rural areas
- Social economy
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The social economy helps turn EU priorities into effective solutions for people and places, contributing to regional and rural development. A mid-term review of the EU’s social economy action plan (SEAP) has found that despite progress at national and international levels, significant untapped potential remains at regional and municipal levels.
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The social economy is an integral part of Europe’s economy and society. Across the EU, social economy organisations provide at least 11.5 million jobs and encompass associations, cooperatives, mutual benefit societies, foundations and social enterprises.
The European Commission adopted the SEAP in December 2021, aiming to unlock the potential of the social economy and amplify its impact. The mid-term review assesses progress so far towards the action plan’s objectives. It examines where existing tools should be strengthened and highlights new actions needed to maximise potential and achieve the EU’s vision: a social economy that is competitive, robust and supported by strong evidence and visibility.
Among other actions, the European Commission will boost its work with public authorities, stakeholder communities and networks to promote the exchange of best practices, joint projects and effective measures for the social economy across territories, supporting and complementing national efforts. Specific attention will be given to rural areas in the context of the EU’s rural action plan, the Rural Pact and the strategy for generational renewal in agriculture.
The Commission also plans to develop a toolkit to support regional and local social economy policies, including guidance on implementing EU public procurement directives. Other measures planned include clarifying relevant State aid rules to make it simpler and easier for public authorities to finance the social economy.
The Rural Pact Community Group on the social economy played a role in the SEAP’s mid-term review, with more than 30 members taking part in an online consultation to share their insights. This marked the first time a Rural Pact Community Group was directly involved in shaping EU policy.
Discover the latest Rural Pact resources on the social economy and join the dedicated Community Group to connect and exchange with peers.