The Evolution Of The Social Economy Concept In Europe

Since its emergence in 1830 until today, social economy has been perceived differently by the European countries and has taken many forms. During the last decade it has gained a momentum especially due to the economic crisis Europe has gone through, being seen as an alternative in solving this global crisis. All the more so, it was born from the need to set the production of goods and services towards meeting all the requirements and not only some countries’ interests. There are three categories of relevant actors of social economy: the organization forms of social economy, the relevant competent institutions and beneficiaries of social economy activities. The social economy organizations were divided into four categories: business cooperatives, mutual societies, foundations, and associations whose legal form can vary considerably from one country to another. From a conceptual standpoint, social economy is understood differently by EU countries. Thus, in some countries such as Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Luxembourg, Latvia, Malta, Poland and the United Kingdom, the concept of social economy enjoys a medium level of acceptance. In countries such as: Austria, Estonia, Germany, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Czech Republic and Slovenia, the concept of social economy is less well known and is at an early stage.The term tertiary sector is mainly used in English-speaking countries to describe non-profit private sector consisting largely of foundations and associations, a term used as a synonym for social economy.A definition of social economy was proposed during the European Standing Conference on Co-operatives, Mutual Societies, Associations and Foundations in 2002: “The organizations of social economy are economic and social actors active in all sectors, characterized mainly by their goals and specific form of entrepreneurship. The social economy includes organizations such as cooperatives, mutual associations and foundations. These enterprises are particularly active in certain areas, such as social protection, social services, health, banking, insurance, agricultural production, neighborhood services, education and training, culture, sport and leisure activities”. (Charter of Principles of the Social Economy, CEP – CMAF European Standing Conference on Co-operatives, Mutual Societies, Associations and Foundations, 2002).The social economy is understood differently , from a theoretical standpoint , both in european countries and cultural beliefs according to their development of each country.The research methodology is based on the theory basics , which is used to examine barriers and stimulating factors management development of social economy.