Eurobarometer: Europeans embrace social economy and call for more support

A new Special Eurobarometer published today shows that 75% of Europeans recognise the importance of the social economy for society's well-being.

Social economy organisations prioritise people, communities and the environment and play a crucial role in tackling societal challenges.

A significant majority endorse further support to the social economy, including through:

• support to social economy organisations (88%)
• awareness-raising (86%)
• assistance to set up social economy organisations (86%)
• direct public financial support (80%)

In addition, a significant number of Europeans (93%) think that businesses should be guided by social economy values, focusing on social and environmental goals, redistributing profits and operating with democratic governance structures.

The results show 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 customers (15%). In addition, one in three Europeans receive help from the social economy in areas like education, training and housing.

Documents

• Infographic with key results
• Abstract and key findings
• Full report
• Member State factsheets