On 16 November 2017, a conference on the role of social economy in the future of work was organized by the European Commission, the European Economic and Social Committee, the City of Gothenburg and Region Västra Götaland as a side event to the Social Summit for Fair Jobs and Growth. The conference brought together social and solidarity economy practioners, policy makers including Labour Ministers and academics who presented good practices illustrating the relevance of social economy enterprises and organizations in a changing world of work.

The ILO participated in a panel on “How do cooperatives serve as a model for tomorrow’s work” by delivering the introductory speech. This was followed by a discussion with five panelists from various cooperative organizations in Europe (e.g. UK, Sweden, Belgium, Italy) and representing a different sectors (renewable energy, digital applications/web design, tourism etc.)

The event shed light on the current and potential role of the social and solidarity economy enterprises and organizations to create growth and sustainable jobs, and achieve social resilience.

More information on the side event is available here