Cooperatives and the wider social and solidarity economy

Overview

The social and solidarity economy (SSE) encompasses enterprises, organizations and other entities that are engaged in economic, social, and environmental activities to serve the collective and/or general interest, which are based on the principles of voluntary cooperation and mutual aid, democratic and/or participatory governance, autonomy and independence, and the primacy of people and social purpose over capital in the distribution and use of surpluses and/or profits as well as assets. Examples of SSE entities include cooperatives, mutual societies, foundations, social enterprises and self-help groups. The ILO defines cooperatives as “an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly owned and democratically controlled enterprise”. SSE entities apply shared values of equality, fairness, interdependence, self-governance, transparency and accountability. They can start informally and transition to the formal economy, with most countries having dedicated processes whereby SSE entities can both form and register as legal entities.

In fragile and conflict-affected areas, promoting economic empowerment and social cohesion is essential for rebuilding communities and supporting displaced communities. By bringing together diverse groups through shared initiatives, this approach aims to economically empower both refugees and host communities, encouraging trust and collaboration. These collective actions also build the foundation for stronger local governance and peacebuilding in areas recovering from instability.

• Government representatives (national)
• Government representatives (local)
• Apex cooperative organizations,
• Cooperatives and other social solidarity economy entities (SSEs)
• Savings and credit groups
• Community-based organizations
• Business development service providers
• (I)NGOs