Public policy in the social and solidarity economy: Towards a favourable environment

The Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) is the term increasingly used to refer to a growing field of economic activities comprising organizations and companies which are driven by values and practices associated with basic needs, inclusion, equity and sustainability. The SSE contributes to the four dimensions of the overall objective of the ILO of decent work for all: job creation, rights at work, social protection and social dialogue.

SSE has been expanding in recent years and its potential contribution to inclusive and sustainable development is increasingly recognized. Thus, the level of interest in the role SSE public policies can play has likewise increased.

Many governments have prioritised the strengthening of the SSE in their national strategies –particularly in relation to employment generation– and there are interesting lessons and insights to be drawn from these experiences. As part of a broader study on SSE Public Policies carried by the ILO, some initial cases have been elaborated. Currently four case studies are available: the Philippines, Europe, Brazil and Nicaragua. The first two are available in English and Spanish, and the last two in Spanish only.

These cases outline main features of public policies for SSE including legal frameworks, government policies, development programmes and institutional reforms. Case studies examine the evolution of public policies in their political economy context, particularly on how they have changed over time. They also discuss the effectiveness of public policies in supporting SSE organizations and enterprises, focusing on factors and conditions related to successful design and implementation.

The case of Europe
English 
Spanish

The case of the Philippines
English
Spanish

The case of Brazil
Spanish

The case of Nicaragua
Spanish