A new Special Eurobarometer published shows that the importance of the social economy is widely acknowledged, with 75% of Europeans recognizing its importance for the well-being of society in their country.
Consequently, a significant majority endorse policies aimed at developing the social economy, including the creation of dedicated strategies and laws (88%), awareness-raising initiatives (86%), assistance to help people set up social economy organisations (86%), and direct financial support from the public sector (80%).
In addition, a significant number of Europeans (93%) think that businesses should be guided by social economy values, such as focusing on social and environmental goals, redistributing profits, and operating with democratic governance structures.
Half of Europeans have engaged with the social economy in the past five years, usually through activities such as volunteering (18%), donations (18%), and as customer (15%). In addition, 1 in 3 Europeans receive help from the social economy in areas like education, training, and housing.
An infographic summarising the key results of the survey is available, along with the full report and member state factsheets.