What's Happening?
The upcoming set of UN sustainability goals is set to prioritize the social and solidarity economy (SSE) as a key component of development strategies beyond 2030. This approach challenges the traditional
reliance on GDP as the primary measure of economic performance, advocating for alternative metrics that better capture human well-being, social equity, and environmental sustainability. The SSE framework emphasizes democratic governance, solidarity-based finance, and grassroots initiatives, aiming to empower marginalized groups and integrate human rights into economic activities. The United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD) has developed sustainable development performance indicators to assess the impact of SSE entities, reflecting their contributions to social progress and environmental care.
Why It's Important?
The shift towards a solidarity economy model represents a significant departure from neoliberal economic policies, which have often neglected social and economic rights. By focusing on collective well-being and ecological sustainability, the SSE offers a more inclusive and equitable approach to development. This model could address structural inequalities and negative externalities associated with traditional economic systems, providing a framework for realizing economic and collective rights. The emphasis on human rights and community empowerment aligns with global efforts to create sustainable and resilient societies, potentially influencing policy decisions and economic practices worldwide.
What's Next?
As the post-2030 agenda unfolds, there will be a concerted effort to develop and implement new measurement tools that reflect the unique values of the SSE. Policymakers and practitioners will need to collaborate to co-construct methodologies that integrate well-being, equity, and sustainability. This process will involve validating the importance of the SSE in development and formulating policies to support its growth. The success of these initiatives could lead to broader adoption of the SSE model, influencing global economic strategies and promoting a more sustainable future.
