Social economy in the life of Europeans - Report

The report titled "Social Economy in the Life of Europeans" was published by the European Commission's Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion (DG EMPL). It aims to assess public awareness, understanding, and engagement with the social economy across the European Union. The document sheds light on how EU citizens perceive the social economy and its impact on their lives, especially in the context of sustainable initiatives.

As per the findings, 56% of EU citizens have heard of the social economy, with awareness varying significantly across Member States. Malta (82%), the Netherlands (79%), and Estonia (71%) showed the highest levels of awareness, while Greece (34%), Romania (37%), and Poland (41%) reported the lowest. Familiarity with the term "social economy" is limited, with only 12% of respondents saying they are "definitely" familiar with it.

The engagement of EU citizens with social economy organizations is widespread. Approximately 51% reported being involved in some capacity over the past five years, with volunteering (18%) and financial donations (18%) being the most common roles. Interestingly, younger individuals and those with higher education levels showed greater involvement, emphasizing the role of education in fostering engagement with sustainable initiatives.

The report highlights that while quality (94%) and price (91%) remain top priorities for consumers, ethical considerations are also significant. Local production is deemed important by 85% of respondents, with social standards and environmental standards valued by 81% and 79%, respectively. This indicates a growing recognition of the importance of sustainable practices in consumer choices.

The social economy is perceived as crucial for personal and societal well-being. Approximately 61% of respondents believe it contributes positively to their personal well-being, while 75% see it as important for societal well-being. The findings suggest that awareness of the social economy correlates with stronger perceptions of its importance across various dimensions including health, education, and environmental sustainability.

Public support for policy action is robust, with 88% of respondents agreeing that public authorities should develop strategies to support the social economy. Additionally, 86% advocate for educational initiatives to raise awareness about social economy principles. This widespread backing underscores a collective desire for greater institutional support to advance sustainable housing and community initiatives.

EU citizens recognize the social economy's role in poverty reduction (46%), care services (42%), and social inclusion (37%). The report indicates a strong perception of the social economy as a mechanism for addressing fundamental societal issues, including economic vulnerability and environmental concerns.

The findings illustrate a nuanced understanding of the social economy among EU citizens, reflecting varying levels of awareness and engagement. The data emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices, community involvement, and policy support in promoting social economy values across Europe. This report serves as a valuable resource for stakeholders interested in enhancing the visibility and impact of the social economy within sustainable housing frameworks.